Sodium chloride eye drops are a salt and water solution applied directly to the eye to address specific conditions. Available in various concentrations, they can be found over-the-counter or prescribed by a healthcare professional. Their primary function involves influencing the fluid balance on the eye’s surface.
Key Uses and How They Work
Sodium chloride eye drops primarily reduce swelling of the cornea, the clear outermost layer at the front of the eye. This condition, known as corneal edema, can occur due to eye surgery, infection, trauma, or underlying conditions like Fuch’s dystrophy. Swelling can lead to blurred vision, discomfort, and the perception of halos around lights.
These drops are hypertonic, meaning the solution has a higher salt concentration than natural eye fluid. When applied, this creates an osmotic gradient, drawing excess fluid out of the swollen cornea. This process reduces swelling and improves visual clarity.
Sodium chloride eye drops are typically available in different concentrations, commonly 2% and 5%. The choice of concentration depends on the severity of corneal edema and the recommendation of an eye care professional. A 5% concentration may be used for significant fluid buildup. While corneal edema is the main indication, hypertonic saline may also benefit other corneal disorders, such as filamentary keratitis.
Proper Usage and Important Considerations
Proper administration ensures effectiveness and prevents contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the bottle. Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface, including your eye, eyelid, or fingers, to keep the solution sterile.
To apply the drops, tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper bottle directly over your eye without touching it, and squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pocket.
After instilling the drops, gently close your eyes for one to two minutes to allow the medicine to absorb. Avoid blinking immediately. Applying gentle pressure to the inner corner of your eye near the nose can help prevent the medication from draining too quickly.
Temporary side effects like mild burning, stinging, irritation, or blurred vision may occur. These reactions are expected and often subside shortly after use. However, contact your doctor if you experience persistent eye pain, significant vision changes, worsening redness, or severe irritation. Seek medical advice if symptoms do not improve within a few days or if you suspect an eye infection or allergic reaction.
Store sodium chloride eye drops in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light; do not freeze. Always check the expiration date. Once opened, most eye drops should be discarded after one month, unless specified otherwise, to reduce contamination risk and ensure effectiveness. Preservative-free drops in single-use vials should be discarded within 24 hours of opening.