EYE DROPS: Be Careful How You Use Them
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What Are Eye Drops?
Eye drops are a medicated solution, containing chemicals to relieve certain eye irritations and/or disorders. They are applied directly into the eye(s) with an applicator (do not let applicator touch eye). The eye drop solution may be applied for various reasons which make their chemical components different, depending on what the solution is prescribed and/or needed for.
REASONS EYE DROPS ARE PRESCRIBED OR NEEDED:
Pink Eye: Inflammation of the membrane of the inner surface of the eye (aka conjunctivitis). It is highly contagious.
Dry Eye(s): Insufficient production of tears. Causes the eyes to burn, itch, turn red and most sufferers say they have a 'feeling of something being in the eye,' (even when not).
Allergies: Pollutants and other causes of eye irritations may be due to allergic reactions. Can cause redness, itching, inflammation, etc.
Tired Eyes: Usually from insufficient sleep or over-exertion of the eyes. Too much tv time and spending lots of time on the computer, Computer Eye Strain Symptoms.
Glaucoma: Progressive eye disease which causes blindness (drops usually relieve pressure on the eyes).
Drainage: Due to colds/flu, the eyes may discharge mucus.
Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea.
Blepharitis: Inflammation, burning, crustiness around the eyes (looks similar to dandruff). Usually more noticeable at eyelash roots and usually caused by lack of oil in the glands.
FOLLOW DOCTOR'S ORDERS:
For whatever reason you are prescribed eye drops; or you feel the need to use them on your own (over the counter eye drops); it is important to follow the directions:
DO NOT use more than the doctor ordered or more than the package directions call for. This also applies for the 'Blue Eyes' drops, which lots of celebrities wear to give sparkle to their eyes and the 'eye color changing drops,' There are no exceptions to the rule, in fact, the rules may be even more strict.
DO NOT try to make up for missed applications. If you skip an application, follow-up with the next scheduled time. If you decide to put drops in your eyes prior to the next scheduled time because you missed an application, know that the following application should be followed through within a new designated time range (not the previous one, as applications will be too close together).
DO NOT OVER-USE: Thinking they are 'just eye drops' can sometimes cause their over-usage. When applied into the eyes, the solution gets into the bloodstream. Improper use can cause slowing of the heart rate, palpitations, breathing problems, headaches and dizziness. For the reasons mentioned, even eye drops should not be taken for granted.
FOLLOW DIRECTIONS: For best results. This will allow eyes to get the proper treatment.
SIDE EFFECTS: Like all other medications, there are side effects to eye drops too. You may even find that you are allergic to the eye drops prescribed or you buy over the counter (eyes become more irritated, itchy, burning sensation, red and/or ifnflammed. IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY SIDE EFFECTS FROM YOUR EYE DROPS CONTACT YOUR PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY!
For Further Reading:
- Improving Vision With Eye Fitness
Practicing physical fitness usually incorporates aerobic exercise for the cardiovascular system and strength training for the musculoskeletal system. Exercise is performed to maintain health and fitness... - Computer Eye Strain
The majority of us spend at least a portion of each day on our computers. For many of us, the computer is practically another appendage on our bodies. While there are certainly many conveniences associated... - The Internet and The Elderly - Precautions
Tips and Precautionary Measures for my Dad (and the elderly) who are vulnerable to the Internet.
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WOW this is great, you've included so much about eye drops that I didn't know. Thanks for the helpful tips on using eye drops and the cautions to take when using them. :) Katie
Thanks very much for this advice. I use eye drops occasionally for tired eyes, but the eye drops for dilating retinas for exams - can't use them, becuase my pupils stay dilated for 3 days.
Pamela99: Thanks for visiting and commenting. I have dry eyes too, so I know what you mean about eye drops being a great relief. Have a great day!
Katiem2: Thanks for visiting and commenting. Having dry eyes, I learned so much about eye drop usage. However, there were some dangers that I recently became aware of and thought this was a good place to share knowledge for those who did not know. Sometimes, we don't think of eye drops of even having any power to do us any harm. But not so. Hope you have a great day!
Patty Inglish, MS: Thanks for visiting and commenting. Those drops that are for eye exams, ugh!, I don't think anyone likes them; and the glasses are not pretty either. Good you stay away from them. Have a great day!
I often use eye drop if there's a problem with my eyes to cure my eyes irritations. But from now, I'll use this wisely. Thanks for share your valuable tips about eye drops. We must care about this. I agree with you that we must consult with the doctor for further treatment. Good work, friend. Vote up. God bless you.
Love and peace,
Good to hear from you prasetio30: Thanks for reading and commenting. Yes, eye drops have more power than what we thought. Hope you have a great day!!
Thanks - very useful. I use eyedrops about late afternoon, when my eyes start to get tired. (Eye brighteners) but I always discard them after 1 month of using.
Great you discard them in a timely manner. Must keep our eyes healthy. Thanks for visiting and commenting. Have a great day!!
Great info, it is helpful, thanks for sharing. thumbs up :)
Thanks James for your visit and comments; glad it was helpful.
Thanks so much for this very helpful article. Another great hub.
Thanks for visiting Eileen. Hope you have been doing well. Glad you found this hub helpful.
Thank you for this useful information. I will book mark this article :)
Glad you found this hub informative/useful. Have a great day!
my eye drops i bought today for a swollen and blurry eye don't have a recommended time on it, they just say to use within 90 days of opening, nothing about how often to use them?
sally: It seems strange that there are no instructions other than to use them within 90 days. Whether you bought them on your own or they were prescription, it would be wise to ask your physician for instructions (if prescribed) or ask the pharmacist (if you bought them on your own). Hope your eye gets better - and thanks for taking the time to read and comment on this hub. Hope it was somewhat helpful to you.
Pamela99 Level 7 Commenter 16 months ago
Support Med, I think this is a good article. I have Sjogren's diaease, so dry eyes. I use eye drops daily and they make all the difference. You have a lot of good information in this hub.