Whether they’re used to treat allergies, dryness, infections, or glaucoma, eye drops are the most common medicated solutions found in medicine cabinets. For eye drops to do their work, they should be properly used. Here we share with you a list of common eye drop mistakes so that you can avoid them:
Mistake 1. Not using prescribed eye drops
There are many types of over-the-counter eye drops available that can provide quick relief from watery eyes, dry eyes, or itchy eyes. Over-the-counter eye drops can be helpful, but it is always recommended to consult an eye doctor. The reason being the symptoms you may be experiencing could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. After getting temporary relief, you may not get the problem which can further aggravate into a serious problem. It is thus advisable to see a doctor and use only prescribed eye drops.
When to see an eye doctor? Consult our eye doctor in Kolkata
If your eyes are producing discharge or have become sensitive to light, or feel itchy, these are signs that your problem needs more than just over-the-counter drops. It is best to see an eye doctor if you suspect that there’s something wrong with your eyes. We have some of the
best eye doctors in Kolkata on board. Using the latest diagnostic and imaging, our eye doctor in Kolkata can help diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate course of treatment.
Mistake 2: Not reading the label
You might be surprised to learn that there are many people who accidentally put the wrong medication in their eyes. Eye drop bottles can easily get mixed up with other medications, and this could damage your vision. Before administering eye drops, always read the label.
Mistake 3: Wearing contact lenses while administering eye drops
It’s important to remove contact lenses while applying eye drops. Otherwise, the drops may not be evenly distributed over the surface of the eye, and they may not be as effective as they should be. Also, some eye drops may cloud or damage contact lenses, temporarily or permanently.
Mistake 4. Applying too many drops at one go
When applying eye drops, it is important to administer one drop at a time. If you use more than one drop, the excess medication may run down your face. Also, be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully. After administering one drop, wait for a few minutes and administer the other.
Mistake 5. Not only applying drops to the centre of the eye
When applying eye drops, it is important to place the drops directly in the centre of the eye. Look up at the ceiling and pull down on your lower eyelid with your index finger.
Hold the dropper above your eye with the tip pointing towards the outer corner of your eye, and squeeze out a drop. Look down and close your eye for a few seconds to allow the drop to spread evenly over the surface of your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye.
Mistake 6: Blinking your eyes too much after applying eye drops
It is important to avoid blinking your eyes too much after applying eye drops. This can cause the drops to be less effective and may even cause them to fall out of your eye. If you need to blink, do it gently. You should also avoid rubbing your eyes after applying eye drops.
Mistake 7. Not handling the bottle properly
Wash your hands before and after administering the eye drops to your eyes. Also, ensure that the dropper shouldn’t touch your eye. This can contaminate the drops and cause irritation or infection. Instead, hold the bottle a few inches away from your eye and gently squeeze the prescribed number of drops into your lower eyelid.