A cataract is a condition in which the lens of one or both eyes becomes cloudy or opaque, which creates blurry vision. Luckily this condition can be treated, but it usually requires a surgery performed by a specially trained ophthalmologist. Cataract surgery can drastically improve your vision if you carefully follow the post-operation directions provided by your eye doctor. Use the following tips for a successful recovery from cataract surgery:

Administer Eye Drops as Prescribed

After a cataract surgery antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are often prescribed to prevent infection and internal inflammation of the eye. Your ophthalmologist will likely direct you to administer these drops several times a day—if you want your eye to heal properly, it is important to put the drops in your eye on schedule, and not skip any doses. The length of time that you will need to use the eye drops will depend on the amount of inflammation observed in the days and weeks after surgery.

Try to Avoid Situations That Put Pressure on Your Eye

Bending over, sneezing, and vomiting all put pressure on your eyes, which is not advised while you are recovering from cataract surgery. You may be able to avoid bending over by planning on resting after surgery, and not partaking in daily chores or tasks. Sneezing and vomiting are harder to control, but consult your eye doctor before the cataract surgery if you are ill, or suffering from allergies that may cause excessive sneezing or throwing up.

Walk With Care After Surgery

After cataract surgery, it is not uncommon for a patient to experience distorted or wavy vision. This can effect perception and balance, while also making it hard to see properly, so move around carefully, or have someone available to help you immediately after surgery. Driving a vehicle is prohibited immediately after cataract surgery, so make transportation plans in advance.

Don't Rub Your Eyes

You may notice that your eyes feel dry or scratchy after cataract surgery. During your recovery period it is important to refrain from rubbing your eyes. Doing so can cause further irritation and prevent our eye from healing properly. Dry eye and sensations of scratchiness will go away as your eye heals; if either symptom is severe, consult your eye doctor.

Reduce Exposure to Environmental Irritants

Dust, wind, grime, air pollution, and pollen are all things that can irritate the eye and keep it from healing properly after cataract surgery. If possible, avoid being outdoors too much in the first few weeks after surgery. Once your eye is completely healed, you can enjoy the outdoors without any worries.