Driving a car after cataract surgery - possible postoperative complications

The organ of vision is a highly organized sensory analyzer. The eyes perceive the sensation of light radiation. When at least one eye is not demanding, the quality and comfort of our life drops sharply. In many cases, it is enough to contact an ophthalmologist who will write out an order for glasses. Unfortunately, there are also eye diseases that require surgical intervention. One of these diseases is cataract. After a rather invasive operation, a proper recovery is recommended. What ailments can occur after the procedure? Can I drive a car after cataract surgery?

What is a cataract?

Proper vision greatly facilitates daily activities. To see well and clearly, the structures of the visual pathway must work efficiently. A healthy retina, optic nerve and visual pathways ensure the transmission of visual sensations to the gray cells of our brain. A cataract is a condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. It usually progresses with age and is a fairly typical physiological state of the lens aging process. However, the lens can become cloudy due to injuries and inflammation of the eyes and even systemic diseases (such as diabetes).

How is cataract surgery performed?

Cataract surgery involves removing the old, cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one. Ophthalmological intervention is performed under local anesthesia - first, an anesthetic drug is instilled into the eyes, and then, after the start of the operation, it is injected into the center of the eye. During the procedure, you may feel a slight tingling or burning sensation, so in some cases additional painkillers are prescribed. The operation usually takes 3 to 4 hours. The patient usually returns home the same day.

Recovery after surgery

The recovery period is usually 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, the eye should heal. However, there are several important recommendations that must be strictly followed. After the operation is prohibited:

• performing heavy exercises (about a month);
• longer bending (immediately after the procedure) - short-term bending is allowed, for example, to lace up shoes;
• using a hot tub to reduce the risk of infection (during the first 2 weeks);
• eye rubbing;
• eye exposure to wind and pollen (first few weeks).

Can I drive a car after cataract surgery?

On the day of the operation, it is not recommended to drive - an external bandage is applied to the eye. Driving a car after cataract surgery largely depends on the individual's predisposition. However, it is suggested that for at least a dozen or so days after eye surgery, it is best to stop driving. During recovery, it is worth resting, recuperating and not straining your eyes too much.

A cataract makes it difficult to see correctly. The operation is minimally invasive, so it is worth improving the quality of life. After the procedure, follow all the recommendations in order to return to full physical form as soon as possible.