Eye drops can be used for a number of reasons, like for bacterial infections such as pink eye, after surgical procedures, or as a treatment for dry eye.
The label on eye drops should be carefully read every time to ensure proper use, and you should never use expired eye drops, even if they haven’t been opened.
Using eye drops past their expiry date could cause them to be less effective or no longer sterile. Make sure to follow the instructions laid out by your eye doctor, and pay attention to the label on the drops.
Is Dry Eye Serious?
Dry eye is one common reason you might use eye drops. It can cause significant discomfort during daily activities and can become a major issue if left unaddressed. Common symptoms include:
- Irritation
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Irritation
- Watery eyes
Dry eye occurs when there is too much or too little of one of the components that make up the eye’s natural lubrication. Sometimes, the eye will overcompensate by producing a large number of tears, despite dryness being the cause.
If dry eye is left untreated, it can develop into something more serious. Dryness can cause dust and dirt to scratch the surface of your eye more easily, and an open wound is an avenue for infection in the delicate tissue of your eye. Permanent damage could occur if left untreated, so it’s best to see a professional and treat the problem early.
What Will Happen if Expired Eye Drops Are Used?
Using expired eye drops comes with a number of risks, like the seal being broken, or preservatives breaking down, making the eye drops no longer sterile. Bacteria can grow over time and cause irritation and infection in the eye, leading to partial or complete blindness. This is especially true if the bottle has been opened and used in the past.
Fresh eye drops mean that the ingredients are as potent as they can be and they can provide the maximum relief for your eyes.
What Should I Do If I Use Expired Eye Drops?
Firstly, if you put expired eye drops into your eyes, don’t panic. Prolonged use can increase your risk of harmful bacteria in your eyes. Throw away any expired bottles as soon as you notice them, and replace them as necessary.
If you have any signs of irritation, flush your eyes out with clean, lukewarm water, making sure to blink repeatedly. Consult your eye doctor as soon as possible for an eye exam and take any necessary next steps. When it comes to your eyes, it is never a good idea to take the wait-and-see approach, as vision loss can be irreversible.
How Long Do Eye Drops Last?
Eye drops come in many different forms for various uses, including:
- To lubricate your eyes during mild cases such as dry eye
- For allergies in the form of antihistamines
- To keep your eyes free of bacteria following surgery or laser eye surgery
- To control high eye pressure as a prescription treatment for Glaucoma
Eye drops come with or without preservatives.
It’s important to read the label on your eye drops every time because different eye drops have different expiry dates. Some eye drops will last until the expiration date, while some eye drops are only considered safe for a short period of time after opening. If you have any questions, it’s best to ask your eye doctor if you have any questions.
How to Preserve the Lifespan of Your Eye Drops
Eye drops can easily be cared for by following the instructions that come with the eye drops you have, or, in the case of prescription eye drops, your pharmacist or eye doctor can give you detailed instructions on how to care for them.
When caring for your eye drops, follow these general guidelines:
- Store your eye drops according to the bottle, likely in a cool, dry place
- Always practice good hygiene by washing your hands before handling your drops
- Don’t touch the dropper to your eye or any other surface
- Don’t share eye drops
- Pay close attention to the expiry date
The Importance of Using the Right Eye Drop for You
The eye is a delicate organ that can be easily exposed to bacteria and other problems. It’s best to use quality eye drops available and that starts with never putting an expired product into your eye. Discard any bottles that are past their best-before date and if you have any questions don’t hesitate to book an appointment with your eye doctor.
Our team at Whitby Family Eye Care are equipped with the technology and understanding to personalize your visit, so don’t hesitate to book an appointment today.
