Headache after laser eye surgery is a common post-operative concern, affecting many patients as they recover. While laser eye surgery remains one of the most effective solutions for vision correction, some people experience discomfort, including mild to severe headaches. But why does this happen, and how long does it last? Let’s explore the causes, recovery process, and ways to relieve headaches after laser eye surgery.
Why Does a Headache After Laser Eye Surgery Happen?
A headache after laser eye surgery is a common side effect that typically occurs due to several factors. One of the primary causes is eye strain, as your eyes adjust to their new vision and work harder to focus. Since laser surgery reshapes the cornea, the brain and eyes need time to adapt, which can lead to temporary discomfort.
Another reason for post-surgery headaches is temporary dry eye syndrome. The procedure can reduce tear production, causing dryness and irritation, which may contribute to headaches. Additionally, light sensitivity is a frequent issue after laser eye surgery. Increased exposure to bright lights or screens can strain the eyes, triggering headaches.
Lastly, some patients experience headaches after laser eye surgery due to changes in intraocular pressure. While this is rare, fluctuations in eye pressure can result in tension headaches. Dehydration, stress, or the natural healing process may also play a role in post-surgical discomfort. The good news is that these headaches are usually temporary and improve as your eyes heal.
Irritation
Immediately after your laser eye surgery Brisbane, you are going to notice that your eyes feel sore.
Indeed, after you have arrived home under the care of a relative or friend, your eyesight will likely be blurred, and you may have issues with bright light for a few days. This, along with eyesight watering and complications with depth perception, are to be expected.
Simply rest as much as you can, and if you feel like there are any further issues, contact your ophthalmologist.
Dry Eyes
It is not surprising that after you have had this surgery, your eyes are likely to feel dry and itchy.
This is because the natural lubricant that gives eyes their sheen will have been somewhat dried up, and your surgeon will have prescribed you eye drops, which you will need to apply every few hours. Even if your eyes are itching, you need to not scratch or rub them, as this can lengthen the healing process.
Vision Issues
It may be annoying for those who have had laser eye surgery to experience issues with their eyesight for a few days after the procedure. After all, the entire point of the surgery was to stop that! However, it is common to have temporary variations in your eyes after surgery, with it seemingly becoming clear one moment and then blurry the next.
When to Contact Your Eye Surgeon
While mild side effects are expected, certain symptoms may indicate complications. If you experience severe pain, prolonged blurry vision, or signs of infection (e.g., redness, swelling, or discharge), contact your eye surgeon immediately.
How to Relieve a Headache After Laser Eye Surgery
As soon as your surgery is over, it is likely you will be eager to go out and see the world with your newly crafted eyes.
However, aside from the blurriness and the itchiness, in general, you will be advised to rest with your eye surgeon for at least a week. You will need to avoid sports and other strenuous exercises, as well as take your eye drops as needed and wear eye patches to aid the healing process.
If you are a fan of wearing eye makeup, it is best to avoid it, as it can introduce foreign particles to the surface of the eye, which may cause further irritation. Just be sure to attend any follow-up appointments as and when they occur, and before you know it, you will be out and about, seeing the world with clarity, free of prescription glasses and contact lenses.
Headache After Laser Eye Surgery: Final Words
Recovering from laser eye surgery requires patience and diligent care. While some irritation and temporary vision issues are normal, following your ophthalmologist’s instructions and allowing ample rest can greatly contribute to a successful outcome. Embrace the journey to clear vision, and soon you’ll enjoy a world without the need for glasses or contact lenses. If you have any concerns during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional.
