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Eye Problems: Using Eyedrops and Eye Ointment
Eyedrops
To use eyedrops, follow these tips:
- For older children and adults: While tilting your head back, pull the lower eyelid down with one or two fingers to create a small pouch. Gently squeeze the dropper to put the eyedrops in the pouch. Close the eye for 30 to 60 seconds to let the drops absorb.
- For younger children: Have the child lie down with the eyes closed. Place an eyedrop in the inner corner of the closed eye. When the eye opens, the drop will run in.
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Eye ointment
The method for inserting eye ointment is slightly different than for inserting eyedrops. When using eye ointments, follow these tips:
- For older children and adults: Pull the lower eyelid down with one or two fingers to create a pouch. Put a thin line of ointment in the pouch. Close the eye for 30 to 60 seconds to let the ointment absorb.
- For younger children, have the child lie down with eyes closed. Pull the lower eyelid out to create a pouch. Put a thin line of ointment in the pouch. With the child's eyes closed, ask the child to move his or her eyeball from side to side to move the ointment around the eye.
- Eye ointment can cause some temporary blurring of vision.
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how to use eye ointment .
Using a mirror may make it easier to see what you are doing.
Test Your Knowledge
When I use an eye ointment, I may get some temporary blurring of vision.
TrueEye ointment can cause some temporary blurring of vision.
FalseEye ointment can cause some temporary blurring of vision.
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Eye Problems: Using Eyedrops and Eye Ointment
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: August 4, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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