Managing Eye Pain After Retinal Surgery: Tips for Eye Drops and Treatment

The medication flows into the nasolacrimal duct?

Hello, doctor.
After undergoing retinal detachment surgery, I have been using eye drops for an extended period.
Due to improper administration of the eye drops and not applying pressure to the nasolacrimal duct, I have been using the drops for nearly three months, and now both my eyes and nasolacrimal duct often feel sore and painful.

(1) How can I treat the soreness and pain?
(2) The surgery has stabilized for three months, and I am preparing for cataract surgery.
I have been using a long-acting dilating agent for almost two months.
What is the purpose of using the dilating agent? Is it normal to use it for such an extended period?
Thank you for your assistance with these questions.

Cai Xiansheng, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/30

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Mr.
Tsai,
1.
The phenomenon of aching pain should not be caused by the medication.
I cannot make that determination based on your symptoms.
2.
Pupil dilation is performed to examine the retina, especially after retinal detachment surgery, for assessment purposes.
Whether further dilation is necessary may need to be discussed with your attending physician.
Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Best regards,
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/05/30

More Info

After undergoing retinal surgery, particularly for retinal detachment, managing eye pain and discomfort is crucial for recovery. Here are some insights and recommendations based on your questions regarding the use of eye drops and treatment strategies.

1. Managing Eye Pain and Discomfort
The sensation of aching or pulling pain in the eye, especially after surgery, can be attributed to several factors, including inflammation, dryness, or improper administration of eye drops. Here are some strategies to alleviate this discomfort:
- Proper Eye Drop Technique: Ensure you are applying eye drops correctly. Tilt your head back slightly, pull down your lower eyelid to create a pocket, and place the drop in without touching the eye or eyelid. After applying the drop, gently close your eyes and press the inner corner of your eye (near the nose) for about 1-2 minutes. This helps prevent the medication from draining into the nasal cavity, which can cause discomfort.

- Artificial Tears: If you are experiencing dryness, consider using preservative-free artificial tears. These can help lubricate the eye and alleviate the sensation of dryness or discomfort.

- Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress over your closed eyes can help soothe discomfort and promote relaxation of the eye muscles.

- Consult Your Doctor: If the pain persists, it’s essential to consult your ophthalmologist. They may need to evaluate for any underlying issues such as inflammation or infection.

2. Purpose and Use of Long-Acting Mydriatic Agents
You mentioned using a long-acting mydriatic agent (such as atropine) for nearly two months. Mydriatic agents are typically used to dilate the pupil, which can help in the following ways:
- Facilitating Examination: Dilation allows the doctor to get a better view of the retina and other internal structures of the eye during follow-up examinations.

- Reducing Pain: In some cases, mydriatics can help relieve pain associated with certain eye conditions by relaxing the muscles of the iris and ciliary body.

- Preventing Complications: After retinal surgery, maintaining pupil dilation can help prevent complications such as synechiae (adhesions between the iris and lens) and can aid in the healing process.

However, prolonged use of mydriatic agents should be monitored by your physician. If you have been using them for an extended period, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor to ensure that it is still appropriate for your condition.

3. Preparing for Cataract Surgery
Since you are preparing for cataract surgery, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions closely. Here are some general tips:
- Continue Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor your eye health and the healing process after retinal surgery.

- Medication Management: Ensure you understand the purpose of each medication you are using, including any pre-operative instructions regarding the use of eye drops before your cataract surgery.

- Report Any Changes: If you notice any significant changes in your vision, increased pain, or other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Conclusion
Managing eye pain and discomfort after retinal surgery requires a combination of proper medication administration, regular follow-ups, and effective communication with your healthcare provider. By ensuring you are using eye drops correctly and understanding the purpose of your medications, you can contribute to a smoother recovery process. Always consult your ophthalmologist for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Managing Post-Surgery Eye Pain: What to Do After Retinal Surgery

Hello, doctor. My husband had surgery for retinal detachment five days ago, during which the doctor removed the silicone oil from his eye and injected gas. This morning, when he woke up, he suddenly experienced pain in the operated eye, along with a headache. The pain medication ...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello, it is important to identify the cause of eye pain, and I recommend seeking medical examination. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cai Wenyuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Post-Retinal Laser Surgery: Is Eye Pain Normal After Two Days?

Due to retinal degeneration and thinning, after undergoing retinal laser surgery, on the second day post-operation, while using the eye drops provided by the hospital on the day of the surgery, my eye flinched, causing a slight white of the eye to show. It took two attempts to ap...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Eye pain after retinal laser surgery is a common symptom, usually caused by irritation during the procedure. Slightly rolling your eyes while applying eye drops should not lead to pain. Generally, eye pain after retinal laser surgery will resolve on its own within a few da...

Post-Strabismus Surgery: Managing Redness and Discomfort

Hello! Since undergoing strabismus surgery in early December, my eyes have frequently been filled with blood vessels and accompanied by an itchy and sore sensation, with no signs of improvement. After a month post-surgery, I used some eye drops, which helped for a while but then ...

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology
Hello, are you referring to the area of the wound? If it's red, some people recover quickly while others may take years. Most topical medications can provide relief, and typically, a long-term safe topical solution will be prescribed.

Understanding Retinal Issues: Managing Vision Problems After Laser Surgery

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. Recently, I underwent laser surgery due to a ruptured blood vessel in my left eye, which caused blurred vision and a mild cataract. For some reason, my left eye has become blurry again, and I also notice a protrusion of the eyeball. I...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Eye drops should be administered with an interval of 5 to 10 minutes. For other symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical examination. Thank you.