The immediate, unpleasant sensation of bitterness or burning in the throat after using eye drops is a common experience. This taste occurs because the medication is absorbed systemically, entering the bloodstream and affecting the body beyond the eye itself. Although the drops are intended for local action on the eye’s surface, the body’s natural drainage system provides a direct pathway for the fluid to travel away from the intended site. Preventing this drainage is a simple, effective way to maximize the drops’ benefit and avoid systemic side effects.
Why Drops Drain to the Throat
The eye possesses a plumbing system designed to drain tears away from the ocular surface into the nasal cavity. This system begins with two tiny openings called the lacrimal puncta, located in the inner corner of the upper and lower eyelids. The puncta collect excess fluid from the eye.
From the puncta, the tears are channeled into small tubes called canaliculi, which lead to the lacrimal sac situated next to the nose bridge. This sac narrows into the nasolacrimal duct, a larger passage that empties directly into the nasal cavity. Once in the nose, the fluid and dissolved medication can be absorbed by the nasal mucosa or drain down the back of the throat to be swallowed. This anatomical connection is why eye drops quickly produce an unwanted taste or cause mild side effects associated with systemic absorption.
The Essential Punctal Occlusion Technique
A highly effective method to stop this drainage is the punctal occlusion technique, which involves physically sealing the drainage openings. Immediately after the drop enters the eye, gently close the eyelid without squeezing or blinking. Using a clean finger, apply light but firm pressure to the inner corner of the eye, directly over the bony bridge of the nose.
This pressure effectively compresses the lacrimal sac and temporarily blocks the puncta, preventing the liquid from entering the drainage system. Maintaining this gentle pressure for at least one to two minutes is recommended to ensure the drop has sufficient contact time with the eye’s surface. This action maximizes the drug’s therapeutic effect on the eye while minimizing systemic absorption.
Application Steps to Maximize Retention
Beyond blocking the drainage system, several steps can be taken during the application process to enhance the drop’s retention on the eye. Before applying the drop, tilting the head back slightly helps to position the eye for easier administration and allows gravity to assist in keeping the drop on the surface. Creating a small pocket by gently pulling down the lower eyelid is also helpful, as the drop can be placed into this space rather than directly onto the sensitive eyeball.
Once the drop is successfully placed, keep the eye closed and avoid forceful blinking or squeezing of the eyelids. Blinking actively pumps the liquid into the puncta and accelerates its drainage away from the eye. After the required retention time has passed, use a clean tissue to blot away the excess solution. This final step removes residual medication from the skin and prevents irritation.