When the eyes feel dry or red, the use of eye drops can be one solution. In order for the results to be effective and not even cause complaints in the eyes, know how to use eye drops correctly.
The basic content of eye drops is saline or salt water. The additional ingredients of each eye drop are tailored to the intended use, either as artificial tears, preventing dry eyes, or treating red eyes.
Types of Eye Drops
To treat eye disorders, you need to choose the right eye drops. Basically, there are three types of eye drops that can be purchased freely at pharmacies, namely:
Eye drops to treat irritation
This one eye drop is used to reduce red eyes due to eye irritation. It is recommended not to use it too often because it can actually aggravate irritation, especially if used for several days continuously.
For some conditions, these types of drops can also cause dependence. That is, the color of the eye will actually turn red if the use is stopped.
Eye drops to treat allergies
These eye drops can reduce red, watery, and itchy eyes caused by pollen, mold, or animal dander allergies. Use as needed and according to the instructions on the product packaging.
Eye drops in the form of artificial tears
Drops that resemble tears are able to keep the eyes moist, so they are the main choice for treating dry eyes or treating irritation due to minor allergies and contact lens friction.
Use of Eye Drops
To stay safe in using eye drops, here are some steps you need to take:
- Check the bottle of eye drops that will be used. Eye drops must be sterile. Also check the expiration date listed on the packaging.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before using eye drops.
- Shake the eye drop bottle before use.
- Tilt your face, then gently pull the lower eyelid.
- Press the pack to drip the medication onto the lower eyelid.
- Blink your eyes so that the eye drops spread all over your eye.
- Do not let the tip of the bottle or package of eye drops touch the surface of the eye. This needs to be considered to prevent the entry of bacteria into the medicine bottle.
- If it is necessary to use several types of eye drops at the same time, give a gap of about 5 minutes.
- For dosages of use, see product packaging labels or according to doctor's recommendations.
- If the eye drops are used from a doctor's prescription, ask the doctor for further explanation about what you can or cannot do when using eye drops.
If you have difficulty instilling eye drops yourself, you can ask someone else to put them in.
Eye problems can interfere with your various activities. So, keep it healthy and clean. Using eye drops that can be purchased over-the-counter can be a first aid when minor eye problems occur.
However, if the complaint is not resolved despite using eye drops correctly or the symptoms worsen and other complaints arise, immediately stop using eye drops and see a doctor.