Glaucoma is a condition that occurs when the pressure in the optic nerve is abnormally high. The increased pressure in the eye can damage the optic nerve. If left untreated for ling, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss. Glaucoma surgery is done to reduce the ocular pressure by creating a separate pathway and allowing fluid to drain more easily. As the eyes are delicate organs, they need extra care, especially after a surgical operation such as glaucoma surgery.
Here our eye specialists share with you some useful insights on glaucoma surgery:
What to Expect After Glaucoma Surgery?
A patient is likely to experience mild discomfort after glaucoma surgery. However, the overall health of the patient plays an important role in the recovery process. The full recovery from the surgery takes around a period of one month. It is common for a patient to experience blurred vision or minor discomfort. It may also cause poor eyesight that can last a few days. However, it is important to consult the concerned eye specialist, if someone experiences any sudden loss of eyesight during this time. Loss of vision can be a sign of a complication that may have occurred as a result of surgery.
Things you should know about care after glaucoma surgery
- Do not drive: It is advisable to not drive while recovering from glaucoma surgery. It is important to ensure that the patient has someone to drive home after surgery. This goes with the follow-up check-ups as well.
- Take proper rest: Take plenty of time to relax and heal while recovering. Do not participate in any sort of strenuous exercise. It is recommended to take some time off work if the job involves physical labour.
- Take time off from eye-intensive jobs: Any intricate tasks such as reading, writing, or typing should also be avoided in the process of healing. This will prevent the eyes from extra stress.
- Follow doctor’s instructions: A successful recovery from any surgery depends on proper post-operative care. The eye surgeon may ask the patient to wear padding to protect the eyes. It is important to keep it on until the doctor’s next instruction. Moreover, to ensure a successful recovery, eye drops should be taken properly.
- Follow-up appointments: The follow-up appointments will determine if the healing is happening properly. It will also detect if there are any signs of infection. The patient also may need to have new corrective glasses as recommended by the doctor.
- No rubbing of eyes: It’s important not to rub or touch your eyes if there is any discomfort in the eyes. It can have damaging effects on the eyes.
- Wash your hands before using eye drops: It is important to wash hands with soap and warm water before using eye drops. Moreover, there will be strict instructions from the doctor on when the patient will be able to shower.
- Wear protective eyewear if recommended: The doctors may advise using protective eyewear. Especially during summer, it is important to wear protective gear to prevent the damaging effects of the sun’s rays.
Though there is no cure for glaucoma, it can be managed effectively. Disha Eye Hospitals provide quality eye care with a team of best eye specialists on board, specialized in treating eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and corneal diseases.