Raynauds and cataract operation

[Stelvio]

Hallo everyone. New here. I am a 62 year old female. I have primary Sjogrens with overlap diffuse systemic sclerosis and bonus Raynauds on top.

The steroids I take for lung fibrosis caused cataracts. I had my right cataract op Last Friday. During the procedure I would hear an automated voice saying "continuous irrigation". Then I would feel cold water irrigating my eye. The eye of course was anaesthetised. However when that cold water started I felt excruciating pain in my nose going up to my forehead and the rest of my body felt shocked. I am not a wuss and can take most things in my stride, but this procedure left me feeling shocked and utterly exhausted. It took me 3 days to recover. Has anyone else had cataracts done and suffered anything similar? I wonder if it is the raynauds.

[trunchalobesity]

That sounds terrible

I hope you are ok?

I’ve been on long term steroids and have some cornea granulation.

I’m waiting to see the eye consultant as I’m god luck and best wishes

[Stelvio in reply to trunchalobesity]

Thank you for your reply. I have read some research papers on cataract op. Apparently keeping the eye cool during the procedure ensures a better result. I am seeing Prof Denton's next week so will discuss this issue with them and see if I can ask for something differently to be done at next op.

Good luck with your consultation too. Sight is so important when you are physically challenged with this illness.

[frillyhilly]

Hi, I'm so sorry that you had such a bad experience I have had primary raynaud's since about 2002 and had a cataract operation about 5 years ago. I had long discussions with the surgeaon and all the staff about my Raynaud's and I had no issues at all - no fans, no cold fluids, extra blankets, etc. I think I am very lucky that my 2 local hospitals have good understandings of our condition.

I think the answer to your question is that it was your Raynaud's reacting to the cold water - after all it is a weird thing and it probably decided that as the nerves in the eye weren't "talkng" it would use some other nerves.

I have found that squeezing the persons hand you get to hold during local operations is very effective and they do not get upset about you doing so.

Wishing you all the best, N. xxx

[Stelvio in reply to frillyhilly]

Thank you for responding. I am sure it was the Raynauds. A week on and I still look grey. So becoming! It will be interesting to find out if my rheumatologist can offer advice,

[frillyhilly in reply to Stelvio]

Hi I'm sorry you are still suffering. When I had my cataract op I had a letter with phone numbers to call if I had any concerns or problems. Assuming you have got the same - Is it worth contacting them? Also, if it's a while before you are due to see your Rheumy, they may be able to get you in sooner, which is always useful. I do hope you start to feel better very soon. xx

[marbelina]

Hello Stelvio, sounds like you had a horrible time with the op. I have scleroderma/raynaunds and have had both cataracts replaced. I didn't experience anything like you mention, it must be putting you off the other eye doing. I'm sure by talking it through with professionals action could be taken to prevent it happening again. In the meantime I hope you recover from your ordeal soon. Take care.

[Stelvio in reply to marbelina]

Thank you for such a lovely reply! Have post op eye appointment tomorrow so will discuss my experience and see if any changes can be done for second eye. Fingers crossed!