Using eye drops correctly is essential for maintaining optimal eye health and ensuring that medications work as intended. Whether you are managing a chronic eye condition, treating an infection, or simply alleviating dryness, knowing how to use eye drops properly can make a significant difference.
Here, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to put eye drops in your eye correctly, ensuring you get the most benefit from your eye medications.
Steps for Proper Eye Drop Application
- Wash Your Hands
Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent any bacteria or dirt from entering your eye.
Dry your hands with a clean towel or tissue. - Prepare the Eye Drops
Shake the eye drop bottle if required.
Remove the cap and avoid touching the dropper tip to keep it sterile. - Get Into Position
Tilt your head back slightly, or lie down if it’s more comfortable.
Use your non-dominant hand to gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket. - Apply the Eye Drops
Hold the bottle with your dominant hand, placing your right pinky finger on your cheek for stability.
Gently squeeze only one eye drop of your inverted eye drop bottle into the pocket of the lower eyelid, being careful not to touch your eye or eyelid with the bottle tip or dropper. - Close Your Eye
Close your eye gently and avoid excessive squeezing.
Apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye (tear duct) for about a minute to prevent the drops from draining away. - Repeat if Necessary
If you need to apply drops to both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
Wait at least 5 minutes before applying a different type of eye drop to avoid dilution. - Clean Up
Replace the cap on the bottle immediately after use.
Wash your hands again to remove any medication residue.
Additional Tips
- Contact Lens Wearers: Remove your contact lenses before applying eye drops, unless your eye doctor has advised otherwise. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses.
- Eye Drop Storage: Store your eye drops as instructed, usually in a cool, dry place. Some medications may require refrigeration.
- Expiry Date: Always check the expiry date on your eye drops and do not use them if they are expired.
- Avoid Contamination: Do not share eye drops with others and avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface.
Importance of Using Eye Drops Properly
- Effective Management of Eye Conditions
Proper use of eye drops is crucial for managing various eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. These medications are designed to control symptoms, slow disease progression, and support overall eye health. - Maximising Medication Effectiveness
Incorrect application can significantly reduce the effectiveness of eye drops. If the medication does not reach the intended area of the eye, it cannot perform its function properly, potentially leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes. - Minimising the Risk of Complications
Incorrect use of eye drops can increase the risk of complications. For example, contamination of the dropper can lead to eye infections.Misapplication can also result in inadequate treatment, which may worsen the condition and potentially require more intensive interventions. - Potentially Reducing the Need for Surgery
Consistent and correct use of prescribed eye drops can help manage conditions like glaucoma, potentially reducing the need for surgical interventions.Proper medication use can control intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients, for instance, potentially delaying or preventing the need for surgery. - Supporting Post-Surgical Recovery
For patients who have undergone eye surgeries, such as cataract or cornea surgery, proper use of prescribed eye drops is essential for recovery.These drops help prevent infections, reduce inflammation, and promote healing, aiming to ensure a smoother and faster recovery process. - Supporting Overall Eye Health
Regular and correct use of eye drops can help support overall eye health, especially in conditions requiring long-term management.It ensures that the eyes receive consistent and appropriate treatment, which can preserve vision and improve quality of life.
How To Book an Assessment
To request an appointment at Vision Clinic Sydney or if you have an enquiry, please contact us via the following ways:
Call or message us: +6129 222 9188
Email us: reception@visionclinicsydney.com.au
Book online via our website
FAQs
If you have any more questions about how to use eye drops, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. In the meantime, see our FAQs below that may provide you with the additional information you’re looking for.
How often can I use eye drops?
The frequency of using eye drops depends on the specific medication and your eye condition. Follow your eye doctor’s instructions closely. Overuse can lead to side effects or decreased effectiveness. If unsure, consult your eye doctor for personalised advice.
Can I use eye drops with contact lenses?
Generally, it is recommended to remove contact lenses before applying eye drops. Some drops can be used with lenses, but it’s crucial to follow your eye doctor’s guidance. After applying the drops, wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses to minimise the risk of irritation.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of your eye drop medications, apply it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up doses to make up for the missed one, as this can cause irritation or other side effects.
How do I store my eye drops?
Store your eye drops according to the instructions on the label, typically in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Some eye drops may require refrigeration. Proper storage aims to ensure the medication remains effective. Always check the expiry date and do not use expired eye drops.
What if I accidentally touch my eye with the dropper?
If the dropper tip touches your eye or any surface, it may become contaminated. Consult your eye doctor for further advice. Using contaminated drops can introduce bacteria to your eye, potentially increasing the risk of infection.
General Information Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information on this site is general in nature and may not reflect current medical developments or research. Your reliance on any information provided by this site is solely at your own risk.