Intravitreal injections are a common, minimally invasive procedure used to deliver medication directly into the vitreous humor at the back of the eye. This targeted approach is highly effective for treating serious retinal conditions, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion. Since the medication is placed directly where it is needed, it works quickly to stabilize or improve vision. Proper post-procedure care is important for both the treatment’s effectiveness and the eye’s safety.
Required Rest Versus Resuming Daily Life
Absolute bed rest is not necessary after an intravitreal injection, and most patients can immediately resume light activities. The primary guidance is to take it easy for the first 24 hours following the procedure. During this initial period, you can engage in activities such as watching television, reading, or using a computer.
Walking and other forms of light, non-strenuous exercise are usually permissible, but avoid anything that significantly raises your heart rate. The goal is to maintain a calm recovery without putting undue strain on the body. By the second day, most patients feel considerably better, and the eye feels nearly back to normal.
Crucial Activity Restrictions
Specific activities must be avoided following the injection to prevent complications like infection or increased intraocular pressure (IOP). The most important restriction is to refrain from rubbing or pressing on the treated eye for at least the remainder of the day. Since the eye’s surface is temporarily numb from the anesthetic, rubbing could cause an abrasion without the patient realizing it.
Avoid introducing water into the eye to minimize the risk of infection. This means avoiding swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas for three to seven days. Some doctors recommend avoiding getting any water in the eye for up to 48 hours, so showering and washing your face must be done carefully. Public water sources contain microorganisms that could lead to a severe infection called endophthalmitis.
For 24 to 48 hours, avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting, intense exercise, or anything that requires significant bending over. These actions can momentarily increase blood pressure and intraocular pressure, potentially disrupting the healing process or causing bleeding. Patients should also avoid gardening for about a week unless they wear safety goggles, as soil and debris pose a risk of contamination.
Managing Common Post-Injection Symptoms
It is normal to experience temporary, mild symptoms in the first day or two after the injection. Many people report a gritty or scratchy sensation, mild discomfort, or a burning feeling in the eye. These sensations are often due to the antiseptic solution used to clean the eye surface before the procedure.
You may also notice temporary visual phenomena, such as small black spots, bubbles, or floaters in your vision. These are usually tiny air bubbles or particles of the medication that will gradually dissipate as the medication disperses within the vitreous gel. A red spot on the white of the eye, known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, is also common. This bruise at the injection site fades within one to two weeks without intervention.
Mild discomfort can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen, if approved by your doctor. You may be instructed to use artificial tear drops frequently to lubricate the eye and alleviate the gritty feeling. Follow your eye doctor’s instructions precisely regarding any prescribed antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops, as they are part of the preventative care protocol.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Care
While most post-injection symptoms are mild and temporary, a few specific signs indicate a potentially serious complication requiring immediate medical attention. The most significant warning sign is sudden, severe, or escalating pain not relieved by standard pain medication. Pain that develops or increases 24 hours or more after the procedure is especially concerning.
You must contact your eye specialist immediately if you experience a dramatic decrease or sudden loss of vision in the treated eye. Other urgent symptoms include increased redness that worsens over time, new or increasing sensitivity to light, or any discharge from the eye. These symptoms can indicate a serious issue like endophthalmitis, which is a rare but sight-threatening infection inside the eye.