A burning sensation from eye drops is a common experience. This reaction is often linked to the ingredients in the drops and the current state of the eye. Understanding the reasons behind this sensation can help determine if it is a normal response or if it warrants further attention.
Factors Contributing to the Sensation
Preservatives, such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK), are a common factor. These are added to prevent microbial contamination and extend shelf life. These chemicals can irritate the ocular surface, especially with frequent use or in individuals with sensitive eyes. Long-term exposure to BAK can damage the cells of the eye surface and disrupt the natural tear film.
The pH level of eye drops plays a role in comfort. The natural tear film of the eye has a pH of approximately 7.4. If eye drops have a pH significantly different from this, they can trigger a stinging or burning sensation as the eye attempts to adjust. Some medicated drops, particularly those for glaucoma, may have pH levels that deviate from the eye’s natural balance to enhance drug effectiveness.
Active ingredients in medicated eye drops can contribute to discomfort. Certain drugs, like antihistamines or decongestants in allergy drops, may cause temporary stinging or burning as a side effect. Some prescription eye drops for dry eye or glaucoma, such as cyclosporine-based drops, can cause mild discomfort.
The osmolarity, or concentration of dissolved particles, in eye drops can affect comfort. The eye’s natural tears have an osmolarity around 289-300 mOsm/L. Solutions with osmolarity levels that differ significantly from this can cause irritation. If the eye’s surface is already compromised, such as with dry eyes, inflammation, or corneal abrasions, it can become more sensitive, making it prone to burning from almost any type of eye drop.
Recognizing When to Seek Advice
While mild, temporary stinging after applying eye drops can be normal, certain signs indicate a more significant issue. Discomfort that persists, worsens, or becomes severe rather than subsiding quickly is one such indicator. This prolonged or intense burning could signify an underlying problem or an adverse reaction.
Accompanying symptoms are another red flag. These can include severe eye pain, pronounced redness, swelling around or in the eye, unusual discharge, significant vision changes, or increased sensitivity to light. These symptoms might point to an infection, inflammation, or other ocular conditions that need prompt medical attention.
Signs of an allergic reaction also warrant seeking advice. These might include intense itching, swelling of the eyelids or surrounding skin, or a rash. In rare instances, a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, can occur, manifesting with hives, facial swelling, wheezing, or dizziness, which constitutes a medical emergency. Consult an eye care professional if the burning sensation is linked to a suspected eye infection, a foreign body sensation, or if the eye drops are not alleviating the original condition while causing significant discomfort.
Strategies for Reducing Discomfort
Several strategies can minimize or prevent burning from eye drops. Opting for preservative-free eye drops is recommended, especially for sensitive eyes or frequent users. Preservative-free formulations reduce the risk of irritation and inflammation caused by additives like benzalkonium chloride (BAK). These drops are typically available in single-dose vials to maintain sterility without preservatives, though some multi-dose bottles now feature special designs to prevent contamination.
Proper application technique can reduce discomfort. Wash hands thoroughly before handling eye drops. When applying drops, tilt the head back, gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket, and administer the drop into this space without letting the dropper tip touch the eye or eyelashes to avoid contamination. After instilling the drop, gently close the eye and apply light pressure to the inner corner near the nose for a minute or two; this helps the medication absorb and prevents it from draining into the nasal passages.
Addressing underlying eye conditions, such as dry eye, can improve eye sensitivity and reduce burning from drops. Dry eye can make the ocular surface more vulnerable to irritation. Using lubricating eye drops, particularly preservative-free options, can help maintain a healthier tear film. Consult an eye care professional for personalized advice, especially if discomfort persists or when choosing new types of drops. They can help identify the root cause and suggest suitable treatment.