EYE DROPS: Be Careful How You Use Them
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,
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:
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