I have had diabetes my entire life, and I am very thankful for the fact that modern medical discoveries have helped me live a happy, healthy life despite my disease. I have had to watch what I eat and take medications daily for most of my life, and while i used to feel like I was "missing out" when other children were able to eat sugary candy and I wasn't, I eventually learned that sugar-free candy tastes great. I am always keeping up on the latest diabetes research, and while researching, I have also learned about many other diseases and ailments and how they are treated and controlled. I know others are too busy to browse a bunch of medical websites, like I like to do, so I decided to start a blog that others can visit that contains information on a variety of medical topics all in one place!
Modern Medicine Saves Lives Every Day
Cataract Surgery Basics You Should Know Before Your Appointment
For Content
Cataracts create cloudy pockets of poor, hazy vision that can make it hard for you to see and function through your day-to-day life. If your optometrist has suggested that you seek surgery to treat cataracts, it's only natural to feel a bit apprehensive. After all, any kind of surgery on your eyes is a pretty big deal. When you understand the procedure and the expected recovery process, you can be better prepared to work through it. Here's a look at some of the basics about cataract surgery.
Cataract Surgery Basics
Most cataract surgery is straightforward, and it's typically done in an outpatient setting. You'll have to stay in the doctor's office for a bit after surgery, though, until you've recovered from the anesthesia. This usually only takes a couple of hours.
Your optometrist will recommend that you have someone accompany you to surgery to give you a ride home. You won't be able to drive immediately following surgery, so most doctors won't even discharge you until there's someone with you who can drive. Wear the protective sunglasses if your doctor gives you a pair – they're important to protect your eyes from damage on the way home.
Typical Surgery Recovery
It may take a few days after your surgery before you notice your vision clearing up. During those first few days, you'll see some cloudy vision and blurring. Don't let it panic you – it'll take some time for everything to settle out and for your vision to improve after the surgery.
You might have some bruises around the outside edges of your eyes. This normally occurs as a result of the local anesthesia injection. In most situations, it just looks a bit like a black eye, and it goes away on its own within a couple of days. If you are concerned, however, you can always reach out to your doctor.
Tips for Easing the Process
Your doctor may prescribe you an antibiotic eye drop after surgery. This is typically just a preventative measure to keep an infection from developing while you recover. You might also receive an anti-inflammatory drop, which will ease the inflammation and redness in your eyes. Make sure you are clear about the instructions for these drops and follow them precisely for the best chances of a full and quick recovery.
For the first several days after surgery, don't get behind the wheel. You'll also want to stay out of the pool, because the chlorine can be irritating. Avoid strenuous physical activity, too. If you strain the tissue in your eyes at all, it can hinder your recovery.
Share