A very common condition, cataracts are cloudy patches on the lens of your eyes and typically occur as a person ages. If not treated, cataracts can progress to the point where a person is no longer able to see. Cataract surgery involves carefully removing the existing lens and replacing it with a plastic lens. It is an outpatient procedure, which means you don't have to stay in the hospital overnight. Here are a few simple ways you can help yourself recover from cataract surgery.

Getting Home from the Hospital

Directly after the procedure, you will recover for several minutes or hours in the hospital or clinic. The doctor may provide you with a sedative before the cataract surgery, so you might feel groggy for several hours after the procedure. An anesthetic will also be used during the procedure, so your eyes will feel numb for several hours, as well.

Because you will be groggy and your eyesight will still be blurry for several hours after the procedure, you will need someone to drive you home and help you into your house. Purchasing groceries and making sure you have everything you need prior to the procedure is a great way to ensure you don't need to leave the house and can relax and heal.

Take Care of Your Eyes

Your eyes will heal for several days after your procedure. However, you might notice that within one or two days after your surgery your eyesight will return and will be clear again. Caring for your eyes properly will ensure you don't cause any unnecessary damage and that your eyes heal as quickly as possible.

Here are a few ways you can care for your eyes in the days after your cataract surgery:

• Wear the doctor-recommended eye shield at night for a few days after the procedure
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
• Use the eye drops your doctor provided for several days after the procedure
• Avoid wearing eye makeup for several days

You can watch television and shower or bathe as usual. However, make sure the soapy water does not get into your eyes.

Learn The Signs of a Potential Issue

The majority of cataract surgeries are successful and do not have any complications. However, it is still important to know the signs of a potential issue. For example, if you experience extreme pain in your eyes, you lose your vision, or experience nausea, vomiting, or severe headaches, talk to your doctor right away.

Knowing how to properly care for yourself in the hours and days after your cataract surgery will help ensure your eyes heal as quickly as possible and you are able to return to your normal life.

For more information on cataract surgery, contact a professional near you.