How to Put in Eyedrops the Right Way
Using eyedrops seems simple enough—until you actually try to get them into your eyes instead of running down your cheek! Many people aren’t taught the correct way to apply eyedrops, which leads to wasted product and ineffective treatment. The good news? With a little practice and the right technique, applying eyedrops can be quick, easy, and mess-free.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Eyedrops
Follow these simple steps to make sure your drops go where they’re supposed to:
- Wash your hands. Always start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria into your eyes.
- Shake the bottle. If your drops require mixing, give the bottle a good shake before use.
- Remove contact lenses if needed. Some medicated drops aren’t safe to use while wearing contacts. Check with your optometrist if you’re unsure.
- Find a comfortable position. You can sit, stand, or lie down—whichever works best for you. Just make sure your head is tilted back so your face is parallel to the ceiling.
- Pull down your lower eyelid. Use your index finger to gently create a small pocket in your lower lid where the drop will go.
- Look up. Keeping your gaze upward will prevent flinching when the drop falls.
- Apply one drop. Gently squeeze the bottle so one drop falls into the pocket of your lower lid. Be careful not to touch your eye or lashes with the tip of the bottle to avoid contamination.
- Close your eye. Keep it closed for about one minute to allow the drop to absorb properly. Try not to blink too much, as this can push the drops out.
- Repeat if necessary. If you need drops in both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
Still Struggling? Practice with Artificial Tears!
If you’re having trouble getting the drops in your eyes rather than on your face, try practicing with artificial tears first. This lets you perfect your technique without wasting any of your medicated drops.
What If You Have More Than One Type of Eyedrop?
If you’ve been prescribed multiple types of drops, it’s important to wait at least five minutes between applications. This prevents one drop from washing out or diluting the other, ensuring both medications work effectively. Your optometrist will let you know the correct order to apply them.
Troubleshooting Common Eyedrop Problems
If applying eyedrops still feels frustrating, here are some simple solutions:
- Shaky hands? Try resting the side of your hand on your cheek to steady it while you apply the drops.
- Can’t get the drops in? Close your eyes and place a drop in the inner corner. When you slowly open your eye, the drop will naturally fall into place.
- Having trouble gripping the bottle? Wrap a paper towel around the bottle to make it easier to hold and squeeze.
Comprehensive Eye Care in Edmonton
If you’re experiencing dry eyes, irritation, or have questions about whether you need medicated eyedrops, a visit to your optometrist can help. At Optometrists’ Clinic, we’ll assess your eye health, recommend the right treatment, and even provide hands-on guidance on applying your drops correctly.
Call us today to book an appointment at one of our Edmonton locations!
