Can coughing damage cataract surgery​​?

If you’re planning cataract surgery or have recently had it, you may worry about what you can and can’t do afterward. One common question many patients ask is, “Can coughing damage my cataract surgery?”

It’s normal to be concerned, coughing can feel like it puts pressure on your eyes. In this blog, we’ll explain what happens when you cough after surgery, how to protect your healing eye, and when to seek advice.

Throughout this post, we’ll also share expert guidance from Professor Paul Ursell, a leading cataract surgeon in Surrey, England.

What happens during cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most common operations in the UK. It removes the cloudy lens inside your eye (the cataract) and replaces it with a clear artificial lens.

The procedure usually takes about 10 minutes and is done under local anaesthetic, meaning you’re awake, but your eye is completely numb.

After the operation, you’ll be able to go home the same day. Most people notice clearer, brighter vision within a few days.

Professor Paul Ursell uses advanced, gentle techniques that help patients heal quickly and comfortably.

What happens if you cough after cataract surgery?

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear your airways. It briefly raises pressure in your chest and head, but for most people, a light cough will not damage cataract surgery.

The small incision made during cataract surgery is self-sealing and very secure. Surgeons like Professor Paul Ursell use modern, tiny incisions that heal quickly without stitches.

So, if you cough once or twice, even soon after surgery, it’s very unlikely to cause harm.

When coughing could be a concern

While occasional coughing is harmless, strong, repeated coughing might increase pressure inside your eye (called intraocular pressure, or IOP). This temporary pressure rise isn’t dangerous for most people, but if it happens often or very forcefully, it could slow down healing or cause mild discomfort.

Here are some situations where coughing might be more of a concern:

• You have a chronic cough, such as from asthma, bronchitis, or a chest infection.
• You experience severe coughing fits that strain your body.
• You’ve recently had other eye surgeries or have conditions like glaucoma.

If you fall into any of these groups, it’s important to tell your surgeon before surgery. Professor Paul Ursell and his team can offer advice to help manage coughing safely during your recovery.

What if you need to cough during surgery?

This is a common worry, patients sometimes wonder, “What if I cough during the operation?”

Don’t worry. During cataract surgery, your head is supported, and your surgeon will guide you if you need to move or cough. Because the anaesthetic keeps your eye steady and pain-free, small movements won’t cause harm.

If you feel like you need to cough, simply let Professor Paul Ursell or the surgical nurse know. They’ll pause the procedure briefly so you can clear your throat safely.

You’re never expected to stay completely still or hold your breath, the surgical team will make sure you’re comfortable the whole time.

Why coughing feels like pressure on your eyes

When you cough, sneeze, or bend forward, you might feel a brief “fullness” or pressure in your eyes or head. This is due to a momentary increase in blood and air pressure.

After cataract surgery, your eye is more sensitive, so you may notice this feeling more than usual. However, that pressure doesn’t usually last long enough to harm the surgical site.

If your eye feels sore or tender after coughing, try to rest with your head slightly raised and avoid rubbing the eye.

Tips to protect your eyes if you’re coughing after surgery

If you do have a cough or cold after cataract surgery, here are a few simple ways to stay safe and comfortable while your eye heals:

1. Keep your head slightly raised when resting.
   This helps reduce pressure in your head and eyes when you cough.
2. Use tissues gently.
   When blowing your nose, do it softly and avoid pressing near your operated eye.
3. Stay hydrated.
   Drinking water and warm fluids can soothe your throat and reduce coughing fits.
4. Use cough medicine if approved.
   If your GP or pharmacist says it’s safe, over-the-counter cough syrups or lozenges can help ease your symptoms.
5. Avoid bending or lifting heavy items.
   These activities can also raise eye pressure, so take it easy during the first week or two of healing.
6. Follow your aftercare plan carefully.
   Use your prescribed eye drops exactly as directed by Professor Paul Ursell. These drops help prevent infection and reduce swelling, keeping your eye strong while it heals.

What to do if your eye feels different after coughing

After cataract surgery, it’s normal for your eye to feel a little watery, itchy, or gritty for a few days. But if coughing seems to make your eye feel worse, or if you notice any sudden changes, contact your eye specialist right away.

You should call your surgeon or clinic immediately if you experience:

• Sudden pain or sharp discomfort
• Loss of vision or increased blurriness
• Redness that worsens instead of improves
• Flashing lights or new floaters in your vision

While rare, these symptoms could mean an increase in pressure or infection, which can be easily treated if caught early.

Professor Paul Ursell and his team are always available to answer questions and guide patients through recovery safely.

How long does it take for the eye to heal?

Most people heal quickly after cataract surgery. In general:

• Within 24 hours, you can usually see better.
• Within a week, most normal activities feel comfortable again.
• After 4–6 weeks, your eye should be fully healed.

During that time, it’s best to avoid anything that puts unnecessary strain on your eyes, like heavy exercise, bending low, or rubbing your eye.

If you do happen to cough or sneeze, don’t panic, just try to keep your mouth open to reduce pressure and avoid holding your breath.

Expert reassurance from Professor Paul Ursell

Professor Paul Ursell has performed thousands of cataract surgeries and understands the concerns patients have about recovery. He reassures patients that everyday actions like coughing, sneezing, or blinking will not undo their surgery or cause damage.

His focus is on safe, comfortable recovery with clear guidance every step of the way.

If you’re ever unsure about a symptom or activity after surgery, his team encourages you to reach out for tailored advice, no question is too small.

Final thoughts

Coughing after cataract surgery is a common concern, but the truth is, a light or occasional cough won’t harm your eye or undo the surgery.

Modern cataract procedures are safe, precise, and use small incisions that heal quickly. Even if you have a cough during recovery, following your aftercare instructions and using your prescribed drops will help your eye heal well.

If you have a chronic cough or any worries about healing, don’t hesitate to contact Professor Paul Ursell and his caring team in Surrey. You’ll receive personalised advice and reassurance every step of the way.

Take the suitability self test today to start your journey toward clear, confident vision.