Cataract surgery is a common outpatient procedure done to treat cataracts, which cause blurry or cloudy vision. During cataract surgery, the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). This can significantly improve vision in most cases. However, cataract surgery does require some recovery time. It is important to avoid strenuous activities and follow your doctor’s advice on restrictions after surgery to allow your eye to properly heal. Light housework is typically permitted during the recovery period, as long as you take the necessary precautions.
What activities are restricted after cataract surgery?
Your ophthalmologist will provide specific guidelines on what you can and cannot do during your recovery from cataract surgery. In general, here are some of the restrictions:
- No heavy lifting of objects over 10 pounds
- No strenuous exercise like weightlifting, running, aerobics
- No swimming or using hot tubs
- No eye makeup or lotions near the operated eye
- No rubbing or pressing on the eye
- No driving until approved by your doctor, usually 1-2 weeks
The restrictions help prevent complications like bleeding, swelling, infection, or dislocation of the new lens implant while your eye heals. Follow your surgeon’s guidelines closely and ask questions if you are unsure about any activities.
What housework activities are permitted?
While recovery does require limiting strenuous activity, light housework is permissible after cataract surgery. Light housework includes:
- Washing dishes
- Folding laundry
- Making the bed
- Dusting furniture
- Cooking meals
- Loading dishes in the dishwasher
- Watering plants
- Tidying and organizing
- Sweeping floors
- Taking out light trash bags
These lighter activities pose little risk to your healing eye. The key is to move at a slower pace, avoid sudden movements or strain, take breaks as needed, and listen to your body. Do not resume full, vigorous house cleaning or heavy lifting until your doctor approves.
Tips for safely doing light housework after surgery
Here are some tips to keep in mind when doing light housework during your cataract surgery recovery:
- Use sunglasses or wear a shield over your eye outdoors or in bright indoor light
- Work during times of day when you have the most energy and least eye fatigue
- Sit down for tasks like folding laundry to avoid standing for too long
- Take regular breaks to rest your eye if needed
- Stay hydrated and listen to your body’s signals
- Use handrails on stairs or request help carrying items up/down stairs
- Avoid exerting force like heavy pushing, pulling, squeezing, or grasping
- Ask for help from family or friends with vacuum cleaning, laundry, or any strenuous tasks
- Keep all follow-up appointments with your eye doctor and report any concerning symptoms
Being mindful of your limits and not overexerting yourself is key. Know that it’s okay to take things slow while you recover.
How much activity is too much after cataract surgery?
It is normal to feel more fatigued than usual in the first days after cataract surgery. Your eye needs time to heal. Pushing yourself too hard can delay recovery, so it’s important to avoid overdoing activities. Here are some signs you may be doing too much:
- Eye pain, irritation, or excessive watering/discharge
- Vision changes like blurriness, flickering, shadows
- Headaches or eye strain
- Nausea, dizziness, or general malaise
- Feeling very worn out after mild activity
- Increase in eye redness or swelling
If you experience any concerning symptoms, stop the activity immediately and contact your eye doctor. It’s generally recommended to limit work to only 1-2 hours spread throughout the day early in your recovery. Increase activity gradually under your doctor’s guidance. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
When can you resume normal activity after cataract surgery?
Most patients can resume their regular household chores and activities within 1-2 weeks after uncomplicated cataract surgery. However, the timeline varies per individual and depends on factors like:
- Type of cataract surgery performed
- Overall health status
- Healing process and recovery speed
- Pre-existing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
- Activity level prior to surgery
Your ophthalmologist will assess your progress at follow-up exams and let you know when you can start gradually increasing your activity level. If you have any concerns about resuming your normal routine, discuss them with your eye doctor. With proper rest and care after surgery, most patients can get back to their active lives within a few weeks.
Conclusion
The recovery period after cataract surgery must be handled with care to prevent complications and allow your eye to heal properly. Light housework such as washing dishes, folding laundry, and other low-exertion tasks are permitted. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, rubbing the eye, or anything that causes pain or concerning symptoms. Listen to the guidance of your ophthalmologist and your own body. With time and patience, you can soon resume your normal active lifestyle after a successful cataract surgery.