Cooking After Cataract Surgery – Things You Need to Know

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Overview 

A cataract is an extremely common condition where the lens in the eye becomes cloudy due to the build-up of protein, leading to vision problems like blurred vision, double vision, etc. Cataracts are to be removed surgically. In cataract surgery, the clouded lens is removed and then replaced with a new artificial lens. Now, like any other surgery, aftercare or post-operative care is required after a cataract surgery. 

There are certain dos and don’ts that are to be followed after cataract surgery. Your doctor will advise you about the precaution you should follow post-surgery. One of them is to avoid cooking after cataract surgery. 

This blog highlights the things you need to know about cooking after cataract surgery. So, please keep reading.

Why Do You Need To Take Special Care Of Yourself After Cataract Surgery?

The eyes are sensitive after cataract surgery and need time to heal. Additionally, there are a few chances of experiencing side effects from the surgery, like eye infection, bleeding, swelling in the eyes, detachment of the retina, and drooping eyelids. Not taking special care after cataract surgery may delay the process of recovery and may also cause problems in the eye, like an eye infection. Hence, utmost care is to be taken after cataract surgery. 

Why Is It Important To Take A Rest From Cooking After Cataract Surgery?

Cooking after cataract surgery is not dangerous. However, it is important to take rest and not cook for at least 5-7 days after the surgery before resuming cooking, as the eyes are fragile post-surgery and need time to heal. The steam and smoke from cooking can irritate the eyes after surgery and delay the process of healing the cataract incisions. 

Tips To Make Cooking Easier After A Cataract Surgery 

Although it is safe to avoid cooking for a few weeks after the surgery, certain tips can help you cook easily after cataract surgery. These tips include the following, 

1. Bending While Cooking In The Kitchen Be Avoided: 

Bending over the stove can cause discomfort and potentially harm the eye. To avoid this, try to cook at counter height or use a step stool to raise the height of the stove. This will allow you to cook without having to bend over.

2. Cooking While Lifting Heavy Utensils Is To Be Avoided:

Lifting heavy utensils can cause unnecessary strain on the eye and may increase the risk of injury. To avoid cooking without using heavy utensils, you can use lightweight utensils, a cooking rack, and a cooking tool with a long handle, as this will allow you to reach further into pots and pans without having to bend over and lift the heavy utensil.

3. Wear Protective Eyewear

Cooking can be messy, and it is important to protect the eye from any potential injury. Wearing protective eyewear, such as goggles, can help prevent any hot liquids or food from splashing into the eye.

4. Use A Fan Or Open Windows To Clear Smoke And Steam

When cooking after eye surgery, it is important to have proper ventilation to remove any smoke or steam that may be produced. This can be done by using a fan or opening windows. This will not only help clear the air, but it will also help prevent any potential irritation to the eye.

5. Take Breaks As Needed

Cooking can be tiring, and it is important to take breaks as needed. If you start to feel fatigued, take a break and rest your eyes. This will help prevent any unnecessary strain on the eye.

6. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions

Each patient is unique, and the instructions provided by your doctor should be followed closely. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for your eye after the cataract surgery, including any specific limitations or precautions you should take when cooking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cooking after cataract surgery can be challenging, but following the tips outlined above can help protect your eye while still enjoying delicious meals. Remember to take breaks as needed, wear protective eyewear, and follow your doctor’s instructions closely. With a little extra care, you can continue to cook and enjoy your favourite meals without putting your eyes at risk. It is also recommended to avoid any activities that could cause significant exposure to dust, smoke, or other irritants until your eye has fully healed. The time taken to recover from a cataract surgery differs for each patient. Hence, it is best to seek advice from a doctor for what is best for you. 

At Ayu Health, our team of highly skilled, qualified, and experienced eye surgeons provides the best surgical treatment for cataracts at affordable costs. Our team of eye doctors provides the best diagnosis, treatment, and care for all eye conditions. Our team is highly patient-centric and believes in providing nothing but the best to all our patients. Get in touch with Ayu Health at +91 636-610-0800 or book an appointment on our website.

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