If you have cataracts in the summer, it is important to take certain precautions to preserve your visual acuity and ensure optimal comfort during your vacation.
Cataracts, which are cloudings of the lens, can affect your near and distance vision, making some everyday situations more difficult.
Here are some recommendations from Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger to help you enjoy your summer safely!
Before going on vacation with cataracts in the summer, consult your ophthalmologist to assess your vision and discuss your travel plans.
Your doctor may recommend cataract treatment, such as surgery, if your vision is severely impaired.
In some cases, cataract surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia.
In order to protect your eyes from bright light, wear quality sunglasses with UV protection.
This is especially crucial for people with cataracts, as bright light can cause increased discomfort and halos around lights.
During your vacation, prioritize activities away from the sun!
If you have cataracts in the summer, if you use eye drops or other eye treatments, make sure you bring enough medication for the duration of your trip.
This is essential to avoid dry eyes, especially in air-conditioned or windy environments.
If you plan to use a smartphone, tablet, or laptop during the summer with cataracts, take regular breaks to avoid eye strain.
Vision problems can be exacerbated by excessive screen use.
Exposure to ultraviolet rays accelerates the deterioration of the lens.
Therefore, it is crucial for anyone with cataracts or who has recently had surgery to wear filtering glasses prescribed by an ophthalmologist, available from your optician.
Above all, we advise you to avoid hours of high exposure.
In dimly lit environments, such as restaurants or entertainment venues, avoid excessively low light.
Cataracts can blur vision, and night vision can be compromised. Choose well-lit areas to avoid any complications.
After cataract surgery in the summer, avoid any strenuous activity or contact with water (swimming pools, oceans) until complete healing.
If you go to the beach or plan water activities, keep in mind that salt water and chlorine can irritate your eyes. This is an essential precaution for cataracts in the summer, especially if you wear contact lenses.
It’s best to use swimming goggles for protection and avoid diving without protection.
Maintain good hydration, as this can help reduce symptoms of eye discomfort, and include foods rich in antioxidants in your diet.
Vitamins C and E, as well as omega-3s, are beneficial for eye health!
After the procedure, which involves replacing the lens with an intraocular lens implant, a period of visual recovery is required.
People with diabetes must be particularly vigilant, as diabetes can cause or delay the treatment of vision problems, particularly those affecting the optic nerve.
During the postoperative phase, eye drops should be applied according to the ophthalmic surgeon’s recommendations to avoid any traumatic complications or infection.
Cataracts are a common ophthalmic pathology related to aging. Discover the first signs of cataracts here.
This pathology causes a progressive decline in vision that can lead to visual disturbances, headaches, or driving difficulties. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness.
A consultation with an ophthalmologist, even if cataracts are suspected in the summer, is essential for people with vision problems.
Watch for signs of retinal detachment or symptoms of glaucoma, such as severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, or flashing lights.
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
Cataracts in the summer are a common but treatable condition.
By taking these precautions during your vacation, you can ensure you fully enjoy your trip while maintaining your eye health.
If you notice a change in your vision or corneal discomfort, don’t hesitate to consult an ophthalmologist. Early detection often allows for better management of the condition and, if necessary, the consideration of cataract surgery, a highly effective procedure for restoring clear vision.
