However, using ophthalmic ointments may require some special considerations, especially if you’ve never used them before. In this article, we’ll discuss how to use an ophthalmic ointment based on erythromycin correctly.
Step 1: Wash your hands
Before you even think of ing any kind of medication to your eye, make sure your hands are clean. Wash them thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a clean towel or paper towel. This helps prevent any dirt, bacteria, or viruses from coming into contact with your eye and making the infection worse.
Step 2: Open the tube
Remove the cap of the ophthalmic ointment tube and make sure the tip of the tube is clean and free of debris. If there’s any buildup around the tip, clean it with a tissue or cotton swab.
Step 3: Administer the ointment
To apply the ointment, gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket. Hold the tube close to your eye (but not touching it) and squeeze a small amount of ointment (around ¼ inch) into the pocket. If you’re using the ointment on both eyes, make sure to use a separate tube for each eye to prevent cross-contamination.
After administering the ointment, close your eyes and gently rub the eyelids together for a few seconds to spread the ointment evenly over the surface of the eye.
Step 4: Wipe off any excess
Don’t worry if a bit of the ointment spills out of your eye, as it’s completely normal. However, use a clean tissue or cotton swab to wipe off any excess ointment from your cheeks or eyelids. This helps prevent any irritation, itchiness, or redness caused by the ointment.
Step 5: Store the ointment properly
After use, make sure to store the ophthalmic ointment tube properly. This usually means keeping it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Be sure to replace the cap tightly to prevent the ointment from drying out and becoming ineffective.
Final thoughts
Using an ophthalmic ointment based on erythromycin is a straightforward process, as long as you follow the proper steps. Always wash your hands before handling the ointment, administer it correctly by pulling down the lower eyelid, and wipe off any excess ointment after use. Additionally, store the ointment properly to maintain its effectiveness and prevent contamination.
If you experience any side effects or worsening of your condition after using the ophthalmic ointment, contact your eye doctor immediately. They may need to adjust your medication or recommend alternative treatment options. With proper use, though, erythromycin-based ophthalmic ointments can be an effective way to get rid of bacterial eye infections.