Post-PRK Care: 7 Do's and Don'ts
- Mr. Manu Matthew
- Jun 4, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 12, 2024
Do's
1. Follow Your Doctor's Instructions: Follow your surgeon's recommended treatment plan strictly, taking the eye drops and prescription drugs.
2. Apply the Recommended Eye Drops: Use Antibiotic and Anti-Inflammatory Drops as prescribed to minimise inflammation and avoid infection. To keep your eyes comfortable and moisturised, frequently use artificial tears.
3. Wear Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from UV radiation and intense light, wear sunglasses with UV protection when you're outside. b. Use a Protective Shield: To prevent accidental rubbing, spend several nights of your sleep with the protective eye shield your doctor prescribed.
4. Put Your Eyes to Rest
a. Take pauses: Take frequent breaks from activities that strain your eyes, such as reading or using a screen.
b. Sleep Well: To aid the healing process, ensure you get enough sleep. Continue to Practice Good Hygiene
5. Maintain the Eye Area Clean: Use a wet towel to gently clean your lashes and eyelids.
6. Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated: Eat a well-balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and seafood high in vitamins and nutrients, supporting eye health. Attend the Rescheduled Appointments
7. Frequent Check-ups: Keep track of your healing process and discuss any concerns with your eye doctor by attending all planned follow-up sessions.
Don'ts:
1. Don't wipe your eyes. No Touching: To avoid complications, avoid rubbing or touching your eyes, especially during the first healing phase.
2. No Swimming: To prevent infection, stay away from hot tubs, swimming pools, and natural bodies of water for at least a month. b. Showering Cautiously: Avoid getting shampoo, soap, or water in your eyes when taking a shower.
3. Cut Down on Screen Time Limit Your Use of Digital Devices: To prevent eye strain, use computers, cellphones, and TVs as little as possible.
4. No Eye Makeup: To avoid irritation and infection, wait at least a week before using any creams, lotions, or eye makeup around your eyes. Choose hypoallergenic cosmetics when you start wearing it again.
5. Steer clear of demanding activities No Heavy Lifting: To prevent raising ocular pressure, avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for at least one week. Avoid high-impact sports and activities that put your eyes at danger of injury or sweat getting in them.
6. Steer clear of irritant exposure Avoid smoke and dust: A smoke-filled, dusty, or polluted environment may cause irritation to your eyes.
7. Don't get behind the wheel right away: Wait until your doctor provides the all-clear and your vision has stabilised before operating a vehicle.
In conclusion, following these dos and don'ts will help you heal more quickly and have a more successful PRK procedure. For individualised guidance, always speak with an eye care specialist, and pay close attention to their recommendations.
