Cataract surgery and heatwave: precautions in hot weather

Summer and heatwaves raise legitimate questions when cataract surgery is planned or recent: can you have surgery when it is very hot, how should you store your eye drops, does the eye need protecting from the sun? Here are the key points to approach this period with peace of mind.

THE ESSENTIALS

Straight answer: yes, surgery goes ahead, and the precautions mainly concern recovery

Cataract surgery takes place in an air-conditioned operating theatre: outdoor heat does not contraindicate the procedure. The precautions in hot weather mainly apply to the days that follow: storing eye drops properly, protecting the eye from the sun and from dust, and supporting the comfort of the ocular surface, which heat and air conditioning tend to dry out.

FEASIBILITY

Can cataract surgery be performed during a heatwave?

Yes. Cataract surgery is a short procedure, performed under local anaesthesia in a temperature-controlled environment. A heatwave alters neither the course of the procedure nor the healing, which takes place inside the eye.

Common sense still applies for the journey and the day of surgery: bring water, avoid the hottest hours, and plan a quiet return to a cooled home. During periods of intense heat, the health authorities recommend drinking regularly without waiting until you feel thirsty and limiting exertion during the hot hours — advice that applies to everyone, and is useful for a recently operated patient.

EYE DROPS

Storing your eye drops properly in hot weather

After cataract surgery, anti-inflammatory and sometimes antibiotic eye drops are prescribed for several weeks. Their storage deserves attention during hot weather.

• The instructions are always on the box and the leaflet: most eye drops are stored at room temperature (below 25 °C), away from light.
• Some products must be kept between 2 and 8 °C, in the refrigerator: never freeze them, and carry them in an insulated bag.
• Never leave a medication in a car parked in the sun, where the temperature rises very quickly.
• If you are unsure about an eye drop exposed to heat, ask your pharmacist for advice.

SUN PROTECTION

Protecting your eyes from the sun after surgery

Once the cataract has been removed and the implant placed, the eye is temporarily more sensitive to light. Wearing sunglasses that filter 100 % of UVA and UVB rays (UV400 category), preferably wraparound, improves comfort outdoors and protects the ocular surface from sun, wind and dust.

Sun protection keeps all its value in the long term: ultraviolet exposure is among the recognised risk factors for cataract. Protecting your eyes from the sun is therefore a good habit to keep well after surgery.

EYE COMFORT

Dryness, dust, air conditioning: the comfort of the operated eye

Heat, air conditioning and fans dry out the surrounding air and speed up the evaporation of the tear film. A recently operated eye, already a little more sensitive, may then sting or give a gritty, sand-in-the-eye sensation.

• Avoid pointing a fan or the air-conditioning vent directly at your face.
• Artificial tears can bring relief: use the ones your ophthalmologist has recommended, in addition to your treatment.
• Protect the eye from dust and sand; follow your surgeon’s recommended waiting times before swimming pools or sea bathing.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Should cataract surgery be postponed because of a heatwave?

No, the procedure takes place in an air-conditioned theatre and heat does not contraindicate it. If you feel uncomfortable in the heat on the planned day, mention it to the team: the arrangements for travel and rest can be adapted.

Should I keep my eye drops in the refrigerator in summer?

Only if the leaflet says so. Most eye drops are stored at room temperature below 25 °C. Refrigerating a drop meant for room temperature is not necessary; conversely, a “2-8 °C” product must stay in the refrigerator. If in doubt, ask your pharmacist.

Can I be in the sun after surgery?

You can go out, but protect your eyes with wraparound UV400 sunglasses and avoid prolonged direct exposure in the first few days. Follow the personalised instructions given to you after your procedure.

Further reading

• Cataract surgery: procedure and aftercare
• Sunglasses and UV: protecting your eyes from cataract
• Book an appointment at the practice

Cataract consultation and follow-up at the Cachan practice · Tel. 01 45 47 08 11

This article is for informational and educational purposes. It does not replace a medical consultation. Instructions following cataract surgery are the responsibility of your ophthalmologist. Sources: ANSM (proper use and storage of medicines during a heatwave); World Health Organization (ultraviolet radiation); French Society of Ophthalmology (ocular surface); Santé publique France (intense heat).