Eyedrops are a staple of any medicine cabinet. They are used to treat a variety of issues, ranging from mild problems, like dryness, itchiness, redness, and allergies, to more series concerns, such as infections and glaucoma.
When used correctly, eyedrops can offer significant relief. But if they are used wrongly or in excess, they can pose risk to your eye health.
To learn more about the best way to use eyedrops, continue reading below as Dr. Edward Hedaya of InVision Eye Care discusses eyedrop do’s and don’ts.
Do Pay Attention to the Quantity
People sometimes assume taking more of something leads to better results. This isn’t the case with eyedrops, however.
For example, if your eyes are feeling especially itchy, you might think using a larger quantity of eyedrops would yield faster results. But overusing eyedrops can wash away the eyes’ natural tears and result in dependency. So always stick to the recommended dose.
Do Apply Drops Properly
When applying eyedrops, you should use the proper technique. Either tilt your head back or lie down. Focus the eye on something beyond the eyedrop bottle.
Then, pull the skin under the lower eyelid slightly away from the eyeball using your free hand. Holding the eyedrop bottle about an inch away from your eye, squeeze a single drop into the eye’s outer corner.
Close the eye and place a clean finger on the corner of the eyelid next to the nose to prevent drainage.
Don’t Blink
After applying eyedrops, many people believe they should blink a lot to spread the drops around the eye. But this is ineffective. Blinking may cause some of the drop to leak out, hindering optimal absorption. Instead, follow the technique outlined above.
Don’t Mix Different Types of Drops
If you use different types of eyedrops, space out their application by at least 30 minutes.
Different kinds of eyedrops, especially prescription and non-prescription, may interact poorly if they are mixed and result in burning, stinging, or watery eyes. The drops’ effectiveness could also be reduced.
Don’t Use Expired Drops
Using eyedrops past their expiration date can be problematic, as the ingredients in the drops may no longer work effectively.
If you’re experiencing an eye condition for which you previously received prescription eyedrops, consult with an eye doctor and get the prescription re-filled rather than using old, leftover drops.
Do Make an Appointment
To learn more about eye health and the most effective way to use eyedrops, call or email the team at InVision Eye Care to schedule a time to meet with any of our talented doctors.
