Eye drops serve as a reliable remedy for various eye allergies and infections. However, there are times when they may not provide the comfort you anticipated. You might notice a burning sensation and wonder if you are overusing them or storing them incorrectly. So, join us as we delve into: the reasons why we experience burning eyes from eye drops (burning sensation), how to properly store them, Eye drop side effects, when to dispose of them, and whether it is possible to misuse or overuse eye drops, along with the consequences of doing so.
Let us explore everything essential to safeguard your eyes and maximize the benefits of your eye drops. Ready to begin?
WHY DO EYE DROPS BURN SOMETIMES?
Experiencing a slight burning or stinging feeling upon applying eye drops is not uncommon, but it can be worrisome. Here are the main reasons why eye drops burn:
1. Preservatives in the Formula: Many over-the-counter eye drops contain preservatives that, while effective at preventing bacterial growth, can irritate sensitive or dry eyes, especially with repeated use.
2. Dry or Damaged Eye Surface; interestingly, dry eyes might sting more upon the initial application of eye drops. If your eye’s surface is inflamed or injured, even moisturizing drops can cause temporary discomfort.
3. PH or Osmolality Imbalance; some eye drops have a pH level that is not in perfect harmony with your natural tears. This mismatch may result in a slight burning sensation for sensitive eyes.
4. Active Ingredients or Allergies; Certain medications (like allergy or glaucoma drops) might lead to irritation as an eye drop side effect, while others may provoke an allergic response to a component of the formula.
5. Contaminated or Expired Eye Drops; If eye drops are improperly stored or used beyond their expiration date, they can become contaminated, resulting in stinging, burning, or even infection.
HOW TO STORE EYE DROPS
Correctly storing eye drops is crucial for ensuring their safety and effectiveness. Recommended Practices for Eye Drop Storage include:
• Room Temperature: Most eye drops should be kept at 59–77°F (15–25°C). Avoid exposing them to heat or humidity.
• Refrigeration: Some prescription eye drops need to be refrigerated before opening.
• Avoid Sunlight: Ultraviolet rays can degrade the ingredients.
• Keep the Cap Closed Tightly to prevent contamination.
• Do not touch the Dropper Tip to your eye or hand.
Note: It is always wise to be cautious regarding eye care, so when uncertain about how to store your eye drops, consult with an optometrist.
WHEN TO THROW AWAY (DISPOSE) OF EYE DROPS
• After 28 days from opening (for most multi-dose bottles).
• If the drops appear cloudy, discolored, or contain particles.
• If the product has expired.
• After completing treatment for an infection.
• Single-use vials should be discarded immediately after use.
Tip: Consider labeling the bottle with the date it was first opened to keep track of when to discard it.
CAN YOU OVERUSE EYE DROPS?
Yes, it is possible to overuse eye drops, and doing so might make things worse.
Common Risks of Overuse include:
1. Rebound Redness: Using redness-reducing eye drops (the ones that get the red out) too frequently can lead to rebound redness, where the blood vessels become even more dilated once the eye drops wear off.
2. Increased Irritation; overusing eye drops with preservatives can gradually irritate your eyes, particularly in individuals with dry eye syndrome.
3. Contamination Risk: Each application raises the chance of bacteria entering the bottle, especially if you touch the tip of the bottle to your eye.
4. Masking Underlying Problems; frequent use of eye drops may conceal symptoms of more serious conditions such as chronic dry eye, infections, or allergies that need medical attention.
SAFE USE OF EYE DROPS GUIDELINES
Using eye drops correctly significantly impacts their effectiveness. Adhere to these straightforward tips:
• Start by following the guidance from your optometrist or the instructions on the product label.
• Wash your hands first to eliminate germs from entering the eyes.
• Tilt your head back or lie down. Look up and lightly pull down your lower eyelid.
• Hold the bottle close (but not touching) the eye and dispense one drop.
• Gently close your eye. Try pressing lightly on the inner corner of your eye for a minute to prevent the eye drop from draining away too quickly.
• Allow at least 5–10 minutes before applying a different type of eye drop to ensure each one has time to take effect.
• Avoid using eye drops more than four times a day unless directed.
• Opt for preservative-free options if needed regularly.
• Stop using and seek advice if irritation increases.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Eye drops represent a simple yet powerful means of caring for your eyes, proving to be incredibly beneficial when used correctly. Safeguarding Your Vision could begin with the Smart Use of eye drops. If you’ve ever wondered: Why do my eye drops burn? Can I continue using this old bottle? Am I using eye drops too frequently? — Now you have the answers
If you’re seeking relief from dry eyes, allergies, or other medical issues, there’s probably an eye drop available that can assist you. Therefore, treat your eye drops like any other medication: Make sure to use them correctly—apply them thoughtfully, store them properly, and recognize when it’s time to discard the bottle. If your symptoms continue or worsen after using them, it’s always wise to consult our optometrist at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.
TREVEC CARES!!!