Can You Exercise After Cataract Surgery?
Posted on: 13 May 2022
Cataract surgery is a common procedure that many people undergo every year. It is a surgery to remove the cloudy lens in your eye and replace it with an artificial lens. After the surgery, you will need to take some time to heal. During this time, there are some restrictions on what you can do. This article addresses when you can resume exercise after your cataract procedure, plus some other activities you should avoid during the healing process.
Exercise After Cataract Surgery
You should not engage in strenuous activity for the first week after cataract surgery. This means no running, lifting weights, or contact sports. You can generally walk, however. Walking is a great way to keep your blood flowing and help your eyes heal. Just be sure to take it easy and don't overdo it.
After the first week, you can slowly start to increase your activity level. Just be sure to listen to your body and take it easy. If you experience any pain, stop what you are doing and rest. Your ophthalmology surgeon may have additional instructions regarding exercise, so check before you resume regular activities.
Other Activities to Avoid
In addition to strenuous exercise, you should avoid some other activities during the healing process. These include:
- Swimming
- Hot tubs
- Saunas
- Steam rooms
These activities can increase the risk of infection. So, it's best to avoid them for at least a week or two after your surgery.
Driving After Surgery
You should not drive yourself home after your cataract procedure. This is because your vision will be impaired and it will take some time for the anesthesia to wear off. Instead, arrange for someone to drive you home. You can usually start driving again within a day or two after your surgery, but you may need sunglasses when you're on the road.
Flying After Surgery
You can fly after cataract surgery, but you may want to wait at least a week. This gives your eyes plenty of time to heal, as they may be more sensitive after the procedure. Your cataract surgeon can help you determine when flying is safe.
Schedule Your Cataract Procedure
Cataract surgery is a common and relatively safe procedure. However, it's important to take some time to recover and avoid strenuous activity or activities that could put you at risk for infection. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a successful surgery and speedy recovery.
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your ophthalmology surgeon. They will be able to give you specific instructions based on your situation. For more information on a cataract procedure, contact a professional near you.
Share