Types of eye ointment and how to use it appropriately

Eye ointment is often used to treat eye problems. Unfortunately, there are still many people who are confused and wrong in using eye ointments, so the drugs in these ointments do not work optimally. There are various eye problems that can be treated with eye ointments, ranging from dry eyes, itchy eyes, to eye infections. Therefore, the type of eye ointment also varies depending on the underlying cause.

Types of Eye Ointment

The following are some common types of eye ointments:

1. Eye ointment to treat dry eyes

Ointments containing paraffin are generally given to treat dry eye problems. This type of ointment can moisturize and lubricate the surface of the eyeball, so it does not dry easily.

2. Eye ointment to treat allergies

This ointment contains antihistamine drugs that work to treat allergic symptoms in the eye, such as red eyes accompanied by itching and watery eyes.

3. Eye ointment to treat bacterial infections

Eye ointments that contain antibiotics are often used to treat eye infections. But remember, this antibiotic ointment is only used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria.

How to Use the Right Eye Ointment

To overcome the interference with the eye, you need to use eye ointment in accordance with the cause of the disorder. Therefore, you should consult your eye doctor first. The doctor will give the appropriate type of eye ointment, and explain how to use it. For eye ointment to work optimally, the following steps can be taken before and during the use of eye ointment:

• Wash your hands before starting to use eye ointment.
• Sit in front of the mirror so that you can properly apply eye ointment.
• Raise your head, then slowly pull the lower eyelid with your index finger.
• Hold the ointment pack using the other hand and press until the ointment comes out about 1 cm. Then, apply along the inside of the lower eyelid.
• Be careful not to touch the tip of the package with eyes or eyelashes, so that the ointment inside is not contaminated by dirt or germs.
• After the ointment attaches to the eye, blink the eye so that the ointment is evenly distributed.
• Shortly after the ointment is applied to the eye, your vision will become blurry, but this condition will disappear after the ointment is evenly distributed and absorbed.
• Clean the remaining ointment around the eyes using a tissue.
• If you must use more than one type of eye ointment, wait 30 minutes before you apply the next ointment.
• If you have to use eye drops and eye ointments, use eye drops first, wait five minutes, then use the ointment.
• Do not apply eye ointment when wearing contact lenses.

Ask for help from others if you cannot use your own eye ointment. However, still make sure the person applies the methods of applying eye ointment correctly as described above.

The Right Way to Store Salve

Eye ointment packaging must be clean and free of dirt and germs. Therefore, eye ointments that have been opened should not be stored carelessly. Here is the correct way to store eye ointment packaging:

• Close the eye ointment and store in a cool, dry room, and avoid direct sunlight.
• Do not let the end of the package (the part where the ointment comes out) come in contact with skin, eyes or other objects, so that the ointment is not contaminated with bacteria.
• Do not use one package of ointment in turn with others.
• Remove eye ointment immediately after the expiration date, or a maximum of 4 weeks after the first package is opened.
• Keep eye ointment out of the reach of children.
• Do not apply eye ointment when wearing contact lenses.
• If eye complaints get worse after using eye ointment, see a doctor immediately.

By knowing the correct way to use eye ointment, you can get rid of eye problems quickly. But keep in mind, if the complaints on the eyes actually get worse after wearing eye ointment, consult a doctor immediately to get the right treatment.