Cataract Surgery Singapore: How to Cope with Visual Problems after the Surgery
Cataract surgery in Singapore is a common and effective solution to restore clear vision. Read more about cataract treatment on this page: https://www.drchelvinsng.com/cataract-treatment-in-singapore/.
The problem with cataract surgery is that recovering from the procedure can bring its own set of challenges. Many patients experience temporary side effects like blurry vision or light sensitivity, while others may encounter less common issues that require attention.
Because of this, many people wonder; how do you cope with visual problems after cataract surgery? In this guide, we’ll explain what cataracts are, signs you may need surgery, and how to identify and address post-surgery visual problems.
What Are Cataracts, and How Does It Feel to Have Them?
You develop cataracts when your eye’s lens becomes cloudy and make it difficult to see clearly. This condition typically progresses slowly and is notorious for going unnoticed in its early stages.
Over time, the clouding worsens which leads to more significant vision problems. People with cataracts often describe their vision as looking through a frosted or fogged-up window. Common symptoms include:
- Blurred or dim vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to light
- Halos around lights
- Colours appear faded and
- Frequent prescription changes
As you’d imagine, these symptoms can interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or even recognising faces. When you get to this level, specialized cataract treatment may be your only way out of this misery.
How to Know When Cataract Surgery Is Needed
Generally, cataract surgery is recommended when the condition begins to affect your quality of life. While cataracts cannot be treated with medication or glasses, surgery can help remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one to restore vision. To know if you need cataract surgery, keep an eye on these changes;
- If you begin struggling with everyday activities, like reading, cooking, or driving.
- If poor vision increases your risk of falls or accidents.
- When glasses or contact lenses no longer help improve your vision.
- If your doctor recommends cataract surgery during an assessment of your vision or eye health.
How Do You Know If Something Is Wrong After Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is generally safe and on the balance of things it should help improve your quality of life. However, the procedure is not entirely risk free.
After your cataract surgery in Singapore, you may experience some discomfort or temporary visual issues during recovery. Now, this is normal and an expected side effect.
However, there are certain symptoms that could indicate a problem that needs medical attention. You can tell something is wrong after your cataract surgery in Singapore if you experience these side effects;
- Blurry Vision
To begin, blurry vision is common in the first few days after cataract surgery as your eye adjusts to the new lens. However, this blurriness shouldn’t persist beyond a week or worsens.
If it persists, beyond seven days or worsen it may indicate swelling or complications. Seek help if your vision becomes increasingly blurry or if it’s accompanied by pain or redness.
- Feeling That Something Is Lodged in the Eye
After cataract surgery in Singapore, some patients describe a gritty or scratchy sensation. Many liken this sensation to having sand in their eye.
It is typically due to healing incisions or mild irritation so it is also expected after cataract surgery. This sensation too should improve within a few days. If it doesn’t improve or worsens, it may point to dry eye syndrome or an infection. Contact your doctor immediately for clarity and guidance on the best next steps.
- Light Sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to light, particularly bright or direct light, is another fairly common post-surgery experience of cataracts. To manage this symptom, it may help to wear sunglasses especially when you’re out in the sun.
Persistent or extreme sensitivity, especially if it’s accompanied by redness or blurry vision is a red flag that you shouldn’t ignore. It could signal inflammation or other complications that needs to be addressed immediately.
- Bloodshot or Red Eye
After your cataract surgery in Singapore, blood vessels in the eye may appear red or more visible. Again, this is an expected surgery side effect which is normal and usually resolves in a few days.
We recommend calling your eye doctor if redness worsens, doesn’t fade after a week, or is paired with pain or discharge. Redness that comes with these symptoms may indicate infection or internal bleeding.
- Dry Eyes
For dry eyes just as it sounds, you may feel your eyes are dry or itchy after surgery. This may be as a result of tear production being on a temporary decline.
You may get relief with over-the-counter lubricating eye drops. You should worry about dry eyes following cataract surgery if it is persistent and interferes with your vision or comfort.
- Nausea or Disorientation
Feeling dizzy or nauseous after your cataract surgery in Singapore can occur if your brain struggles to adapt to the new lens. This is more likely if you have pre-existing balance issues or significant vision changes.
You should be worried about nausea and disorientation after cataract surgery if the nausea persists or is accompanied by severe headaches. Seek medical assessment to rule out rare complications like increased eye pressure.
- Floaters or Flashes of Light
For floaters or flashes of light, you may notice small spots, lines, or flashes of light in your vision. Now, floaters are often harmless.
However, not all cases should be ignored especially after cataract surgery as the floaters could also indicate retinal detachment—a rare but serious complication of cataract surgery. Seek immediate help if floaters suddenly increase or are accompanied by flashes of light or a shadow in your peripheral vision.
In Closing
Cataract surgery when done correctly can effectively restore your vision. Before consenting to the procedure, ensure you fully understand the potential post-surgery challenges.
While most side effects resolve on their own with proper care, you should know when to contact your doctor to help you address complications and ensure a smooth recovery.
If you’re preparing for cataract surgery or experiencing post-surgery visual problems, please consult a qualified eye specialist in Singapore for personalized care. Reach out today to learn more about your options and how to protect your vision.
Chelvin Sng Eye Centre – Glaucoma | Cataract Surgery | Retina Specialist | Ophthalmologist Singapore
38 IRRAWADDY ROAD MT ELIZABETH NOVENA SPECIALIST CENTRE,
#06-25, Singapore 329563
+65 6334 2282
