DEBUNKING MYTHS: CATARACT SURGERY & SUMMER

By Our Correspondent

ODISHA,APR 15 : A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens, causing blurry vision similar to looking through a foggy window; this condition usually develops slowly and can initially be managed with brighter lighting and glasses, but eventually may require surgery to replace the cloudy lens with a clear artificial intra-ocular lens.

Symptoms of cataract are

●            Clouded, blurred or dim vision.

●            Trouble seeing at night.

●            Sensitivity to light and glare.

●            Need for brighter light for reading and other activities.

●            Seeing “halos” around lights.

●            Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription.

●            Fading or yellowing of colors.

At first, the cloudiness in your vision caused by a cataract may affect only a small part of the eye’s lens. You may not notice any vision loss. As the cataract grows larger, it clouds more of your lens. More clouding changes the light passing through the lens. This may lead to symptoms you notice more.

Summer Myths & Facts:

Myth 1: Summer Heat Increases the Risk of Infection

Fact: Modern eye surgery procedures are performed in sterile, controlled environments, minimizing the risk of infection regardless of the season. Surgeons follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety, and the risk of infection remains low throughout the year.

Myth 2: Sunlight Negatively Affects Healing

Fact: While it’s true that direct sunlight can cause discomfort and may delay healing, this risk is easily managed. Patients are advised to wear protective sunglasses and follow post-operative care instructions to shield their eyes from harmful UV rays. Proper eye protection can effectively mitigate any potential issues caused by sunlight.

Myth 3: Higher Temperatures Affect Surgical Outcomes

Fact: Surgical outcomes are not impacted by the weather. The controlled environments in which eye surgeries are performed ensure that external temperatures do not affect the procedure. Advanced surgical techniques and equipment function optimally regardless of the season.

Myth 4: Allergies are worse in summer, making surgery riskier

Fact: Allergies can indeed be more pronounced in certain seasons. However, preoperative evaluations take your overall health, including allergy status, into account. If you have seasonal allergies, your surgeon may prescribe medications to manage symptoms and ensure a smooth recovery process.

Myth 5: Dehydration from Heat Can Complicate Surgery

Fact: Proper hydration is important for overall health but does not specifically complicate eye surgery. Surgeons recommend staying hydrated and maintaining good overall health before any surgical procedure. Drinking adequate water and following a balanced diet are simple yet effective measures.

Myth 6: Recovery Takes Longer in summer

Fact: Recovery time from eye surgery is consistent throughout the year and depends on individual factors rather than the season. Following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions is crucial for a smooth and timely recovery, regardless of when the surgery is performed.

Myth 7: Post-Surgery Activities are Limited in summer

Fact: While some activities like swimming or being in dusty environments should be avoided initially, most other summer activities can be enjoyed with proper care. Protective eyewear and following post-operative guidelines allow patients to enjoy their summer while recovering from eye surgery.

Myth 8: Eye Surgeries Are Less Effective in summer

Fact: The effectiveness of eye surgeries like LASIK or cataract surgery is not influenced by the season. Success rates are consistently high throughout the year, thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and technology. The skill of the surgeon and adherence to post-operative care are the key factors influencing outcomes.