How Long Should You Use Eye Drops and Ointment After Corneal Injury? - Ophthalmology

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After a corneal injury, the duration for which you should use eye drops and ointments can vary based on the severity of the injury and the specific medications prescribed. In your case, you mentioned that you had a corneal abrasion caused by a foreign object (iron filings), and your doctor prescribed "視益眼藥水" (presumably an antibiotic or lubricating eye drop) to be used every two hours, and "漸得明眼藥膏" (likely an antibiotic ointment) to be applied once at bedtime.


Duration of Use
1. Eye Drops (視益眼藥水): Typically, antibiotic eye drops are prescribed for a period ranging from 5 to 7 days, depending on the healing progress and the doctor's assessment. Since you are instructed to use them every two hours, it's crucial to monitor your symptoms. If you notice improvement in your discomfort and the eye appears to be healing (less redness, less pain, and improved vision), you may be able to taper off the drops sooner. However, it is essential to complete the full course as prescribed to prevent any potential infection.

2. Ointment (漸得明眼藥膏): Ointments are generally used for a similar duration, often for about a week. They are particularly beneficial at night because they provide a protective barrier and help retain moisture while you sleep. If your symptoms persist beyond the initial week, or if you experience any worsening of your condition, you should return to your eye doctor for a follow-up.


Monitoring and Follow-Up
It's important to have follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to assess the healing of your cornea. During these visits, your doctor can determine if you need to continue using the medications or if adjustments are necessary. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Increased redness or swelling of the eye
- Severe pain that does not improve with medication
- Changes in vision, such as blurriness or loss of vision
- Discharge from the eye that is yellow or green

Additional Recommendations
- Artificial Tears: In addition to the prescribed medications, using preservative-free artificial tears can help alleviate dryness and discomfort. These can be used more frequently than the prescribed drops and can provide additional lubrication to the cornea as it heals.

- Rest and Avoid Strain: Ensure you give your eyes adequate rest. Avoid activities that may strain your eyes, such as prolonged screen time or reading, especially in the initial days following the injury.

- Protective Eyewear: Consider wearing protective eyewear, especially if you are in environments where debris or irritants are present. This can help prevent further injury to the cornea.


Conclusion
In summary, the duration for using your prescribed eye drops and ointment will typically be about one week, but this can vary based on your healing progress. Regular follow-ups with your eye doctor are essential to ensure proper healing and to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Always prioritize your eye health and seek medical advice if you have any concerns during your recovery.