Which finding would indicate a possible complication after cataract surgery?

Which finding would indicate a possible complication after cataract surgery?

• A. Slightly swollen eyelid
• B. Slight discomfort of the eye
• C. Bloodshot appearance of the eye
• D. Extreme pain in the eye

Answer: (D)

Extreme eye pain after cataract surgery is a red flag for a possible complication. After the procedure, mild swelling, slight discomfort, and some redness can be part of normal healing and usually lessen with time. But severe or extreme pain isn’t typical and suggests something more serious may be occurring inside the eye, such as an infection, a sudden rise in intraocular pressure, or a wound issue. That’s why this finding best indicates a potential complication and needs prompt evaluation. The milder signs—slight swelling, mild discomfort, or a bloodshot appearance—can occur during normal recovery and aren’t reliable indicators of a complication on their own.