Can You Put Too Much Eye Ointment? Understanding Dosage, Risks, and Application

According to ophthalmologists, a common mistake patients make is believing more medication will yield faster results, a misconception that applies to eye ointment as well. Yes, you can put too much eye ointment, and doing so can increase the risk of side effects like temporary blurred vision, irritation, and ineffective treatment.

Quick Summary

Applying excessive eye ointment can cause temporary blurred vision, irritation, redness, and discomfort, and it will not speed up healing. Using the correct, small dose is critical for effective treatment and to avoid side effects.

Key Points

• Dosage Matters: Applying too much eye ointment does not speed up healing; it only increases the likelihood of side effects and discomfort.

• Expect Blurred Vision: A significant dose of eye ointment will likely cause pronounced and prolonged blurred vision, making tasks like driving unsafe.

• Contamination Is a Risk: Touching the tube tip to the eye while attempting to apply too much ointment can introduce bacteria and lead to infection.

• Follow Proper Technique: To avoid over-application, use a specific, small amount (about the size of a grain of rice) and apply it to the pouch of the lower eyelid.

• Monitor for Severe Reactions: While most side effects are mild, severe symptoms like swelling or persistent pain require immediate medical attention.

• Don't Compensate: If you accidentally use too much, simply wipe away the excess and resume your normal schedule with the correct dose. Do not skip or double-up doses.

The Risks of Over-Application

While it might seem logical that more medication is better, applying an excessive amount of eye ointment can actually be counterproductive and increase the risk of side effects. Unlike oral medications that have systemic effects, ophthalmic ointments are thick and designed to stay in the eye for an extended period, meaning proper dosage is key. Overloading the eye with ointment can lead to a variety of issues that interfere with vision and eye health.

Temporary Blurred Vision and Discomfort

One of the most immediate and common side effects of using too much eye ointment is significantly blurred vision. Eye ointments have a thick, viscous base, which can create a film over the eye's surface. When applied correctly in a small, thin strip, this blurriness is temporary and manageable. However, a large amount will cause more pronounced and prolonged blurring, hindering your ability to perform daily tasks like driving or reading. This is why many eye ointments are recommended for nighttime use, when blurred vision is less of a concern. Excessive ointment can also feel 'gunky' or sticky, causing general eye discomfort.

Eye Irritation and Redness

Applying too much eye ointment can lead to irritation, stinging, and increased redness. The excess medication can clog the tiny glands in your eyelids, and some ingredients or preservatives may trigger mild to severe reactions in some people. Instead of soothing the eye, overuse can worsen existing conditions or cause new inflammatory responses, such as eyelid irritation or erythema.

Allergic Reactions

For some individuals, using too much of a specific eye ointment can increase the likelihood of an allergic reaction to one of its components. While rare, symptoms can include hives, swelling of the face or mouth, and severe itching. A healthcare provider should be consulted immediately if any of these severe symptoms occur.

Ineffective Treatment and Contamination Risk

Using more ointment than prescribed does not necessarily mean your eye will absorb more of the active ingredient. Instead, the excess ointment may be blinked away or leak out of the eye, effectively wasting the medication. Moreover, if the ointment tube touches your eye or lashes during an attempt to apply a large amount, it can become contaminated with bacteria. This contaminates the rest of the tube and can introduce bacteria directly into your eye, potentially causing or worsening an infection.

Proper Eye Ointment Application: A Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure your eye ointment is as safe and effective as possible, proper application is crucial. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions, but here is a general guide.

• Wash your hands: Always begin with thoroughly washed hands to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Warm the tube: Holding the tube in your hand for a minute or two can help soften the ointment for smoother application.
• Position your head: Tilt your head back or lie down comfortably.
• Create a pouch: Gently pull down your lower eyelid with your index finger to form a small pocket.
• Apply the ointment: Squeeze a thin, small line of ointment, typically about one-third of an inch long or the size of a grain of rice, into the pocket. Avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye or lashes.
• Close your eye gently: Release your lower eyelid and close your eye gently for one to two minutes to allow the ointment to spread.
• Wipe away excess: Use a clean tissue to blot any excess ointment from your lashes and eyelids.
• Wash your hands again: Wash your hands to remove any lingering ointment.

Comparison of Eye Ointment and Eye Drops

Understanding the differences between eye drops and ointments can help clarify why dosage is so important for the latter.

Feature	Eye Ointment	Eye Drops
Consistency	Thick, viscous	Thin, liquid
Primary Purpose	Lubrication, severe dry eye, bacterial infections, nighttime use	Quick moisture, lubrication, redness relief, inflammation, daytime use
Vision Effect	Causes temporary blurred vision, more noticeable with overuse	Less likely to cause blurriness, but can cause temporary stinging or irritation
Absorption	Absorbs slowly, providing longer-lasting contact with the eye's surface	Absorbs and drains quickly, often requiring more frequent application
Overuse Risk	Blurred vision, irritation, 'gunky' feeling, potential allergic reactions	Rebound redness (with decongestant drops), irritation, worsening dry eyes
Typical Dose	A small, thin ribbon (1/3 inch) applied to the lower eyelid pocket	A single drop into the lower eyelid pocket

What to Do If You Apply Too Much

If you find yourself with a surplus of ointment in your eye, don't panic. The steps to resolve the situation are straightforward:

• Wipe excess gently: Use a clean, lint-free tissue to gently wipe away any visible excess ointment from the outside of your eye and lashes. Do not rub the eye itself, as this can cause further irritation.
• Wait for the blurriness to subside: The blurred vision is temporary and will clear up on its own. It's best to wait until your vision returns to normal before driving or operating machinery.
• Monitor for symptoms: Keep an eye out for increased redness, stinging, or any sign of a worsening condition.
• Do not double-dose: If you realize you used too much, do not apply more to compensate or skip the next dose. Return to your regular schedule with the correct dosage.
• Contact a doctor if concerned: If you experience severe or persistent side effects, such as unusual discharge, swelling, or pain, contact your eye care provider.

Conclusion

While eye ointment is an effective treatment for various eye conditions, correct application and dosage are paramount for safety and efficacy. The rule of 'more is better' does not apply to ophthalmic medications; instead, it can lead to increased side effects like temporary blurred vision, irritation, and even allergic reactions. By following proper application techniques and using only the recommended small, thin strip, patients can ensure their medication works as intended without unnecessary discomfort or risk. Always consult a healthcare professional with any concerns about your eye medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I use too much eye ointment?

Using too much eye ointment can cause temporary blurred vision, a 'gunky' or sticky feeling, and eye irritation or redness. It does not improve the treatment's effectiveness and can sometimes worsen the condition.

How much eye ointment is the correct dose?

A correct dose is typically a thin strip of ointment about one-third of an inch long or the size of a grain of rice, applied into the pouch of the lower eyelid.

Can I get an infection from using too much eye ointment?

While using too much ointment itself won't cause an infection, the improper application often associated with it can. If the tip of the tube touches your eye, lashes, or any surface, it can become contaminated and spread bacteria.

What should I do if my vision is very blurry after applying eye ointment?

Significant blurring is a common side effect of ophthalmic ointment, especially with overuse. Avoid driving or other tasks that require clear vision until it subsides. Gently wiping away any external excess can help.

Is eye ointment meant for day or night use?

Many people use eye ointment at night because its thicker consistency causes temporary blurred vision. This allows it to work effectively while you sleep without interfering with your daily activities.

What are the signs of an allergic reaction to eye ointment?

An allergic reaction could manifest as skin rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Can using too much eye ointment cause my dry eyes to get worse?

Yes, in some cases, overusing thick gels and ointments when they aren't needed can contribute to issues. Furthermore, some eye drops, when overused, can cause a rebound effect that worsens symptoms.