If you’re treating an eye infection, washing your hands will help prevent spreading it. Even if you don’t have an infection, wash your hands before touching your eyes. You wouldn’t want to get germs or dirt in them.
That way, the cap won’t roll onto the floor or get lost. Placing it on a clean tissue is a good option.
The pocket is the pink (or red, if you’re treating an eye infection) area around the eyeball.
Rotate the tube when you’ve finished spreading the strip. This will help detach the strip of ointment from the tip of the tube. [7] X Research source A thin strip across the inside of the lower eyelid is a general dosage guideline, but the recommended dosage can vary. If your doctor or pharmacist advises a different dosage, go with their instructions.
If you’re applying ointment to your own eyes, you might have trouble seeing what you’re doing. Have someone help you or wait to cap the tube until you can open your eyes. Just don’t let the tip of the tube touch any surfaces other than a clean tissue in the meantime. Remember to wash your hands after applying the ointment. Apply ointment as many times per day as your doctor or pharmacist advises. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
It can be tough to stop blinking when the tube is close to your eye and you feel the strange sensation of the ointment. Try to relax and remind yourself that the medicine will help you feel better. It’s a little easier to apply an accurate dose of eye ointment than it is to use eye drops, which are easily washed away if you blink a lot.
If possible, enlist a helper to hold your baby or young child while you apply the ointment.
Your hands should be clean before touching irritated skin in order to prevent an infection.
Be careful not to get any ointment inside your eyes. Only apply a topical ointment to dry skin. Don’t apply the ointment to areas of skin that aren’t affected by the condition you are treating.
Try to keep the affected area out of direct sunlight for as long as you use the medication.
Sometimes your eyes open slightly while you sleep, which can cause eye drops to evaporate. Thicker ointments and gels can last through the night without evaporating.
Your doctor might just tell you to stop using a topical ointment when your eczema clears.
An infection should start to clear up after a couple of days. Dry eyes and eczema can take longer to treat, so ask your doctor when you should expect symptoms to improve.
