Eye Ointment - Types, Uses, and Method of Application

What Is an Eye Ointment?

Eye ointment is a medication that may be prescribed to treat various eye conditions. Eye ointment is a medication in paste form. In medical terminologies, this may be known as a topical medication. Topical medication is a drug that does not enter body circulation and treats local conditions. Eye ointments are used when the drugs have to start working right away. They are quite effective, and in most cases, they provide immediate relief. Ointments are generally semisolid and greasy in consistency. The body's warmth activates them. Once applied, the body’s heat breaks the ointment into tiny droplets that stick to the skin, as in this case, the eyelids. This gives the ointment the time to act on the infection.

Eye ointments are largely very safe. It rarely causes side effects such as blurring of vision or mild irritation. It is always better to use ointments on the prescription of the doctor rather than OTC (over-the-counter) drugs to prevent complications.

When Is an Eye Ointment Used?

An eye ointment can be used to treat various conditions. To use the most appropriate ointment, it is necessary to find out the causative factor. The condition may be bacterial, viral, or may be due to exposure to chemicals. In case of bacterial infections, an antibacterial ointment can be given or an antiviral ointment can be given for a viral infection. At times even a topical steroid could also be prescribed depending on the condition to be treated. The eye ointment is used to treat the following conditions:

1. Conjunctivitis: It is also known as pink eye. It is a bacterial or viral infection of the eye. An eye ointment can be used to treat this condition.

2. Keratitis: It is also an infectious condition of the eye that may be caused due to contact lenses.

3. Uveitis is an infective condition of the eye's middle layer. An ointment may be useful for quick resolution of this condition.

4. Blepharitis: It is an infectious condition of the eyelashes. This condition may be caused due to blocked eyelash follicles that may later get infected.

5. Eye Strain: Eye strain is a condition that is caused due to fatigue of the eyes. Eye ointments, in this case, prevent eye dryness which in turn causes eye strain.

What Are the Most Common Medications Given as Eye Ointments?

The ointment form of the drug can be decided based on the condition that is to be treated. The various drugs of choice include:

1. Erythromycin: It is the most common antibiotic that is used to treat conjunctivitis. This drug is safe for children.

2. Ciprofloxacin: It is also an antibiotic mostly used to treat conjunctivitis. It may not be suitable for children under the age of 2 years.

3. Gentamicin: It is an antibiotic used to treat conjunctivitis, uveitis, and blepharitis.

4. Acyclovir: It is an antiviral drug that may be used to treat eye infections caused by the herpes virus.

5. Steroids: Certain steroids can be prescribed for various inflammatory conditions.

How to Use an Eye Ointment?

The eye ointment will be able to give better results when used properly. A person can apply the ointment by themselves or seek help from someone if required. The steps undertaken for the proper usage of eye ointment are:

1. Cleaning The Hands: Since the hands and the finger may come in direct contact with the eyes, it is important to keep them clean. It is always advisable to wash hands with soap and water before applying the ointment.

2. Warming the Tube: The tube containing the ointment can be warmed for some time by rolling it between the palms. This helps to bring the ointment to body temperature.

3. Removing the Tube Cap: The cap of the tube should be opened without contacting the medicine inside. Caution should be taken to place the cap on a clean surface.

4. Application of the Ointment: With the help of fingertips, one should gently retract the lower eyelid without touching the eye. The tube should be held close to the eye but should not touch the eye. The tube should be gently squeezed, allowing the ointment to flow into the pocket of the lower eyelid. To have ease of access, the head can be tilted backward. A mirror also can be used to help with the procedure. If required, the same procedure can be repeated in the other eye as well.

5. After the Application: After the ointment application, the eyes should be closed for at least a minute. This will allow the ointment to melt under the body heat and spread across the eye's surface. One should look upwards (with closed eyes) to allow the ointment to spread evenly. When this time is given for the drug to start working, better results can be obtained.

6. Cleaning the Tube Tip: After applying the ointment, the tip of the tube should be cleaned using tissue or baby wipes to prevent the spread of infection. To prevent contamination, one should not come in contact with the medicine in the tube.

7. Washing Hands: After finishing up, it is advisable to clean the hands again with soap and water to prevent cross-contamination.

How to Apply Eye Ointments to Children?

The application of eye ointments in children can be a challenge by itself. Help from another adult to hold the child firmly may be required. Before starting the application, it is advisable to follow hand hygiene.

• Ointment Application in Older Children: In the case of older children, it will be easier if providers first reassure them that the ointment is just cream and it will not hurt. After making them sit or lie down in a comfortable position, their lower eyelids can be gently retracted, and the ointment can be applied.

• Ointment Application in Smaller Children: Before the application, the smaller children or infants can be made to lie down and wrapped in a blanket to restrict their movement. In smaller children, it is better to place the ointment in the inner corner of the eye. The ointment, once applied, will spread by itself when the child blinks. If required, the ointment should be applied to both eyes.

What Are the Precautions to Be Taken Before the Application of Ointment?

It is advisable to take certain precautions before the application of the ointment to obtain optimal results. Some of the precautions include:

1. Removing Contact Lenses: It is advisable to avoid the usage of contact lenses during the entire duration of the treatment. This helps in a speedy recovery and also prevents re-infection

2. Avoid Sharing: Sharing ointments should be avoided at any cost. This prevents cross-infection.

3. Early Discomfort: Early discomfort may be felt while using ointments, such as blurring of vision. This may settle in a while. However, medical attention should be immediately obtained if the symptoms or irritation persists.

4. Combination of Medicines: In case, a combination of medications is to be used, a gap of five minutes should be maintained between them. For instance, if an eye drop and an ointment are prescribed, there should be a gap of five minutes between their application.

How to Store Eye Ointment?

Before using the ointment, it is to be made sure that the tube is a fresh one with a sealed cap. The expiry date is to be checked. After and in between usage, the ointment tube should be stored in a cool and dry place. It is always better to ensure that the cap is tightly sealed.

What to Do if the Ointment Accidently Gets in the Eyes?

If the ointment that is not meant for you accidentally gets in your eyes, you should first rinse their eyes with fresh water. Eyes should be rinsed at periodic intervals. In case of any irritation, medical attention should be obtained at the earliest.

Conclusion

Eye ointment treats various conditions, such as conjunctivitis and keratitis. It is always advisable to follow the appropriate steps to obtain the best results. Hence eye ointment can be used as a medication to cure certain conditions most optimally.