The Effect of Inhalation Aromatherapy with Lavender Essential Oil in Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery– A Randomized Control Trial
Keywords:
Cataract, Aromatherapy, Phacoemulsification, Lavender, Menthol, Anxiety, Pain, Randomized Controlled TrialAbstract
Cataract is a common eye disease that causes blindness in millions of people worldwide. While phacoemulsification
can restore vision, anxiety and fear of pain can burden patients. This study investigated whether inhaling a blend of lavender
and menthol (Laventhol) aromatherapy could reduce anxiety and pain in patients undergoing cataract surgery.
Methods: In this single-blinded, randomized controlled trial, 89 patients undergoing cataract surgery were assigned
to either the aromatherapy group (n = 44) or the control group (n = 45). The aromatherapy group received two drops
of Laventhol essential oil applied to their face masks 10 minutes prior to the surgery, while the control group received
a normal saline solution. Anxiety and pain levels were measured before and afterwards.
Results: The Aromatherapy group exhibits statistically significant difference in postoperative and preoperative
anxiety score compared to the control group (mean STAI difference ± 2SD aromatherapy = -9.95 ± 10.80 vs normal
saline = -1.82 ± 7.95, p-value < 0.001*). Notably, self-assessment pain scores (SAPS) difference is significantly lower
in aromatherapy group compared to normal saline group (mean Pain Score difference aromatherapy = 0.25 ± 2.52 vs
normal saline = 2.34 ± 2.10, p-value < 0.001*). Importantly, no notable adverse events were reported in either group.
Conclusion: Laventhol aromatherapy effectively reduced anxiety and pain in patients undergoing cataract surgery.
This safe and non-invasive approach may improve the surgical experience and quality of life for cataract patients
worldwide.
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