A burning sensation after using eye drops can be an uncomfortable experience. Understanding the various reasons behind this sensation helps determine if it’s a normal reaction or warrants attention. Many factors, from the eye drop’s composition to the eye’s existing state, can contribute to this feeling.
Common Reasons for Initial Discomfort
A common reason for immediate burning is the presence of preservatives like benzalkonium chloride (BAK). These are included to prevent contamination and extend shelf life. However, they can be harsh on the ocular surface, leading to irritation and a burning sensation, especially with frequent use or in sensitive eyes. Over time, BAK can even cause damage to the conjunctival and corneal epithelial cells.
The pH level of the eye drop solution also contributes to temporary stinging. The eye’s natural tear film maintains a delicate pH balance, typically around 7.4. If an eye drop’s pH is significantly different, it can disrupt this balance and cause a burning or stinging sensation. Manufacturers aim to keep the pH close to natural tears, but this can be challenging with certain active ingredients.
Specific active ingredients can also induce a transient burning. Decongestant eye drops, used to reduce redness, contain vasoconstrictors that narrow blood vessels, which can lead to temporary stinging. Similarly, antihistamines in allergy eye drops may cause temporary discomfort due to their pH.
The existing condition of the eye also plays a role. If eyes are already dry, irritated, or inflamed, even a mild eye drop can cause a burning sensation. Dry eyes, in particular, may have microscopic defects on the surface, exposing corneal nerves and making them more sensitive to eye drop pH. This pre-existing irritation makes the eye more vulnerable to discomfort from external applications.
Underlying Factors and Adverse Reactions
Beyond initial discomfort, burning can signal an allergic reaction. Individuals may develop an allergy to specific eye drop components, including active ingredients, preservatives, or other inactive substances. Such reactions can manifest as burning, along with itching, increased redness, and swelling, indicating an immune response.
Contamination of eye drops presents another risk. If drops are expired, improperly stored, or if the dropper tip touches the eye or another surface, bacteria or fungi can contaminate the solution. Using contaminated drops can introduce infection, leading to burning, irritation, and other signs of infection.
Certain eye drops can also interact negatively with or exacerbate pre-existing eye conditions. For instance, individuals with chronic dry eye syndrome may find that some eye drops, especially those with certain preservatives, worsen their symptoms. Conditions like blepharitis or conjunctivitis can also make eyes more sensitive, leading to increased burning when eye drops are applied.
For prescription eye drops, burning can sometimes be a known side effect of the medication itself. Stronger active ingredients in these drops, used to treat conditions like glaucoma or infections, might inherently cause more noticeable discomfort upon application.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While a mild, temporary burning sensation from eye drops can be common, certain symptoms warrant immediate consultation. Persistent or worsening burning that does not subside after a few minutes indicates a deeper issue. This ongoing discomfort suggests the eye is reacting beyond a normal transient sensation.
Vision changes accompanying the burning, such as blurred vision, halos around lights, or any decrease in visual clarity, are serious signs. These symptoms could indicate inflammation, increased pressure within the eye, or other conditions that require prompt medical evaluation.
Other red flags include increased redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye. These symptoms can point to an infection, a severe allergic reaction, or significant inflammation. Severe pain should also prompt a visit to a healthcare provider.
Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, can be a symptom of inflammation or infection within the eye and, when combined with burning, should be evaluated. If the original eye condition for which the drops were prescribed does not improve, or if it worsens despite using the drops, professional medical advice is necessary to reassess the treatment plan.
Strategies for Alleviating and Preventing Burning
To alleviate and prevent burning, choosing preservative-free eye drops can be beneficial, especially for individuals with sensitive eyes or those who use drops frequently. Preservative-free formulations reduce the risk of irritation caused by chemicals like benzalkonium chloride (BAK) and are generally considered safer for long-term use.
Proper application technique is important to minimize irritation and avoid contamination. Always wash hands before handling eye drops. Tilt the head back, pull the lower eyelid down to create a pocket, and dispense a single drop without touching the dropper tip to the eye or eyelashes. After application, gently close the eye and apply light pressure to the inner corner near the nose for two to three minutes to allow absorption and prevent drainage into the nasal passages.
Regularly checking expiration dates and properly discarding opened or expired eye drops is crucial to prevent contamination. Eye drops should be discarded once their in-use shelf life is reached, typically a few weeks after opening. This practice helps ensure the sterility of the solution.
For ongoing or persistent burning, consulting an eye care professional is advisable to determine the underlying cause and select the most appropriate eye drops. They can diagnose specific conditions and recommend tailored treatments. In cases of mild, temporary burning, applying a cool compress to the closed eyelids or performing blinking exercises can sometimes offer relief.