3 Tips To Reduce Swelling After Cataract Surgery
A cataract is usually located in the lens of your eye, so this makes it difficult to use your vision for a variety of things. Cataract surgery involves creating an incision in your eye and breaking up the cataract into tiny pieces. Once the surgery is completed, the incision will usually seal on its own and your eye should recover within a few days. However, you may experience swelling around your eye following surgery. This may be a complication as a result of the surgery and your doctor should be contacted. Until you are able to see your doctor, there are a few tips that you can do to reduce swelling.
Apply Ice to the Area Immediately After Surgery
A cool compress can help to reduce swelling if it is applied within the first few hours following surgery. You can take a handful of ice and wrap it in a clean cloth. Apply the ice around your eye area and hold it there for a few minutes. Repeat this process several times throughout the day. After the first few days, ice will no longer be effective at reducing swelling.
Apply Chamomile Tea to the Area
Chamomile is used in herbal medicine because it can soothe inflammation and has a calming effect. In order to make the chamomile tea, soak fresh chamomile in hot water. Allow the herbs to soak for a few minutes and soak a clean cloth in the tea mixture. Wring the excess tea from the cloth and apply it around your eye area. Chamomile tea is not only good for reducing swelling, but it can help to alleviate any pain that you may be feeling due to the cataract surgery.
Massage Lavender Oil Around Your Eyes
Lavender essential oil is a natural analgesic that is frequently used because of its relaxing properties. The oil can be massaged into your temples to help relieve headaches and migraines. In addition, it can be used to help alleviate swelling after cataract surgery. Add a few drops of lavender to your fingertips and use your fingertips to massage the oil around your eyes. Avoid getting the oil in your eyes. Massage the oil for a few minutes and repeat this process in the morning and night.
Recovering from cataract surgery tends to be extremely painless. However, a complication can cause swelling and extend your recovery time. Therefore, use these tips to help reduce swelling after cataract surgery.
For cataract surgery, contact an office such as Northwest Ophthalmology.