Which potential complication should be monitored in a post-operative cataract patient?

In a post-operative cataract patient, monitoring for increased intraocular pressure is vital because excessive pressure can lead to serious complications, such as vision loss or damage to the optic nerve. Cataract surgery involves manipulation of the eye and its structures, which can disrupt the normal balance of intraocular fluids. If this balance is not restored properly, it can result in heightened intraocular pressure, potentially leading to glaucoma or other ocular issues.

Minor discomfort around the surgical site is often expected and typically manageable with medication, and temporary vision loss is also common in the immediate post-operative period as the eye adjusts. Leakage of tears may happen but is generally not a direct complication of cataract surgery. Each of these conditions could be less severe when compared to the risk that comes from uncontrolled intraocular pressure, making it critical for healthcare providers to closely monitor this aspect in post-operative care.