$Unique_ID{BRK00741}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Using Eye Drops Too Frequently}
$Subject{eye drops drop abuse treatment treatments eyes Sense senses
lubricating solution}
$Volume{R-21}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Using Eye Drops Too Frequently


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QUESTION:  Is there such a thing as using eye drops too frequently?  There is
this guy in my office who is continuously popping drops into his eyes, and I
am sure he can be doing himself a great deal of harm.  I wish I knew more, so
that I could warn him about the dangers of his actions.

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ANSWER:  It is hard to be sure from your letter, but I must assume that these
drops are the nonprescription or over-the-counter type.  I must believe that
if they were prescription medications, containing active ingredients necessary
to correct a medical situation, that his personal physician would be
instructing him as to the correct use and frequency of instilling these drops
in his eyes.  Such medications would be needed to treat glaucoma, infections,
allergic irritations and a host of other conditions, and would be most
important for your co-worker's health.  Over-the-counter drops are used for
quite different purposes, most often as a simple lubricating solution to help
calm irritated eyes.  Contact lens users help keep their corrective
prescriptions moist and clear, and may feel the need to do so more frequently
in dry environments such as heated offices or apartments, where there is less
natural moisture in the air.  Some nonprescription eye drops contain a
decongestant which constricts the blood vessels in the eye, and "helps get the
red out".  They too are harmless, provided they are used as directed, and not
excessively.  However, any chemical in these solutions can provoke an allergic
reaction, creating the very situation of reddened eyes they were formulated to
control.  Frankly, I don't think your co-worker is in much danger, but perhaps
you would feel better if you found out just why he seemed to need these drops
so frequently.  Why not just ask him?

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.