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Feeling Nauseous 4 Days After Cataract Surgery

Feeling nauseous four days after cataract surgery? Learn possible causes, when to seek help, and tips to manage nausea effectively during recovery.

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Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt

Last updated on 15th Jul, 2025

Introduction

Cataract surgery is a common and generally safe procedure that helps restore clear vision. However, some patients may experience unexpected side effects, such as nausea, even a few days after the surgery. If you're feeling nauseous four days after your cataract surgery, it’s natural to be concerned. This article will help you understand why this might be happening, when to seek medical attention, and how to manage the discomfort.

Why Am I Feeling Nauseous After Cataract Surgery?

Nausea after cataract surgery is not very common, but it can happen due to several reasons:

1. Anaesthesia or Sedation Effects – If you were given general anaesthesia or sedation during the procedure, some people may experience lingering effects like nausea for a few days.

2. Medication Side Effects – Eye drops or oral medications (such as antibiotics or pain relievers) prescribed after surgery can sometimes cause nausea.

3. Eye Pressure Changes – The surgery can temporarily affect eye pressure, which may lead to dizziness or nausea in some individuals.

4. Dehydration or Low Blood Sugar – Recovery can sometimes make people forget to eat or drink enough, leading to nausea.

5. Underlying Health Conditions – If you have conditions like migraines, vertigo, or inner ear problems, surgery-related stress might trigger nausea.

When Should I Worry?

While mild nausea is usually not a major concern, you should contact your doctor if you experience:

  • Severe or persistent vomiting

  • Blurred vision or worsening eye pain

  • Fever or signs of infection like redness, swelling or discharge

  • Severe dizziness or headaches

These could indicate complications like infection, increased eye pressure, or other issues that need medical attention.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Eye Health Advice

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. V.chittibabu, Ophthalmologist

Dr. V.chittibabu

Ophthalmologist

30 Years • MBBS, MS

Vellore

Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore

625

How Can I Manage Nausea at Home?

If your nausea is mild and not accompanied by other worrying symptoms, try these tips:

  • Stay Hydrated – Sip small amounts of water, ginger tea, or electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration.

  • Eat Light & Bland Foods – Try crackers, toast, bananas, or rice until the nausea subsides.

  • Rest in a Comfortable Position – Avoid sudden movements and lie down with your head slightly elevated.

  • Avoid Strong Smells & Heavy Meals – Strong odours or greasy foods can worsen nausea.

  • Check Your Medications – If you suspect your eye drops or pills are causing nausea, ask your doctor if an alternative is available.

Preventing Nausea After Surgery

If you’re scheduled for cataract surgery and are prone to nausea, you can take these precautions:

  • Inform your doctor about any history of nausea after anaesthesia.

  • Stay hydrated before and after surgery.

  • Eat a light meal before the procedure, if allowed.

  • Follow all post-surgery care instructions carefully.

If your nausea persists beyond a day or two, or if you notice any other unusual symptoms, it’s best to consult your eye specialist. At Apollo 24|7, you can easily book a follow-up consultation or speak to a doctor online for quick advice.

Final Thoughts

Feeling nauseous a few days after cataract surgery can be unsettling, but it’s often temporary and manageable. By staying hydrated, eating light, and monitoring your symptoms, you can ease discomfort. However, if the nausea is severe or accompanied by other concerning signs, don’t hesitate to seek medical help.

To ensure safe and speedy recovery, book a follow-up consultation with an Apollo 24|7 eye specialist today.

Consult Top Eye Specialists

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. V.chittibabu, Ophthalmologist

Dr. V.chittibabu

Ophthalmologist

30 Years • MBBS, MS

Vellore

Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore

625

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Eye Health Advice

Dr Rajesh Rastogi, Ophthalmologist

Dr Rajesh Rastogi

Ophthalmologist

33 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology

New Delhi

Rotary Diabetic Centre, New Delhi

1500

1200

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. V.chittibabu, Ophthalmologist

Dr. V.chittibabu

Ophthalmologist

30 Years • MBBS, MS

Vellore

Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore

625

Dr. Sneha T Khurana, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Sneha T Khurana

Ophthalmologist

9 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology

Gurugram

GS multispeciality clinic, Gurugram

1300

Dr. Akashdipta Saha, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Akashdipta Saha

Ophthalmologist

4 Years • MBBS, MD(Ophthalmology), Fellowship in Retina & Vitreous

Delhi

AIIMS, Delhi

625

Consult Top Eye Specialists

Dr Rajesh Rastogi, Ophthalmologist

Dr Rajesh Rastogi

Ophthalmologist

33 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology

New Delhi

Rotary Diabetic Centre, New Delhi

1500

1200

Dr. S Venkateswaran, Ophthalmologist

Dr. S Venkateswaran

Ophthalmologist

35 Years • MBBS, PGD (OPTHALMOLOGY)

Tiruvannamalai

Shiva Eye And General Hospital, Tiruvannamalai

recommendation

81%

(25+ Patients)

625

500

Dr. V.chittibabu, Ophthalmologist

Dr. V.chittibabu

Ophthalmologist

30 Years • MBBS, MS

Vellore

Krupa Eye Clinic, Vellore

625

Dr. Sneha T Khurana, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Sneha T Khurana

Ophthalmologist

9 Years • MBBS, MS Ophthalmology

Gurugram

GS multispeciality clinic, Gurugram

1300

Dr. Akashdipta Saha, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Akashdipta Saha

Ophthalmologist

4 Years • MBBS, MD(Ophthalmology), Fellowship in Retina & Vitreous

Delhi

AIIMS, Delhi

625

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