Kids Eye Drops

Eye drops are the pharmaceutical management to treat a variety of eye diseases. Common eye concerns include infection, allergies, and dry eyes. Considering kids, not every eye drop is safe to use. Some eye drops may be contraindicated among the kids. This article focuses on the kids eye drops for safe usage and avoiding any side effects. Let us take a deep dive into the details related to eye drops for kids.

For the growing eyes of kids, it is very important to consult an optometrist before using any form of medicine. In addition, there are some safe options for kids to use eye drops. Never use any eye drops without consulting an eye specialist.

What are eye drops?

Eye drops are saline-containing drops infused with medicine or without any type of medicine. These eye drops are used solely for lubrication or treating any eye-related problem. Medicated eye drops usually contain:

• Steroids
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Antihistamines to avoid allergic reaction
• Sympathomimetics
• Beta receptor blocker
• Parasympathomimetics
• Prostaglandins
• Topical anesthetics
• Antibiotics
• Antifungals
• Antivirals

What are the common eye problems among kids for using eye drops?

Multiple eye problems require proper treatment. Treatment protocols may include eye drops to use. Depending on the condition of the eye, there are multiple safe options for kids eye drops. Here are some of the common eye problems that may need the usage of eye drops among kids.

Dry eyes

Dry eye is a common eye-related problem that can occur at any part of the age. The most common sensation related to dry eyes is irritation, dry or hot sensation, excessive watery eyes, with a feeling of sand or dirt in the eye. Dry eyes can cause redness and an increased sensitivity to light. This condition can be uncomfortable for the diseased person.

Artificial tears provide immediate relief. These artificial tears are commonly brought into use 3 to 4 times per day. But, if you feel this frequency is not sufficient, it is best to use preservative-free artificial tears or eye drops.

Allergic reaction

Allergies can affect the eyes directly or indirectly. During an allergic reaction, histamine is released from the mast cells to accelerate the allergic reaction. Antihistamine eye drops are an effective remedy to relieve the symptoms of allergy. The common cause of eye allergy is pollen grains. The symptoms usually include tingling, stinging, burning, or itching sensation in the eyes.

Besides using antihistamine eye drops, it is also suggested to follow the precautionary measures. Washing the face and rinsing the eye regularly can help to alleviate the symptoms of eye allergy. Moreover, keeping hair clean can provide relief from allergies.

Infections

Allergies are not the only culprit to cause itchiness or stingy sensation in the eyes. Eye infections like conjunctivitis (pink eyes) can also induce similar symptoms to allergic reactions. Treatment protocols depend on the underlying cause and microbe. The common treatments may include antiviral, antibacterial, or antifungal eye drops or ointments to relieve the infection.

The eye is a very sensitive organ. If you see any sign of severe infection, contact an eye physician for proper diagnosis and management.

Myopia

Myopia or nearsightedness is a refractive error that appears in early childhood. It tends to get severe over time. Atropine eye drops manage the severity of myopia. It lowers the progression of myopia in children. Atropine drops are used to manage amblyopia. Don’t go independently for any medication. Consult your optometrist regarding any eye-related problem and associated management plan.

Pupil dilation

Regular eye checkup is a normal care routine for your growing children. Optometrists perform multiple diagnostic tests to reveal any underlying eye problem. It may include dilating eye drops to assess the inside of the eyes and any eye problem or condition. Moreover, it also helps to evaluate whether your child needs glasses or not.

How to use kids eye drops regularly?

It is very important to use the kids eye drops regularly to get the desired benefits. Follow the necessary directions mentioned in the package. Use these eye drops as your doctor suggested in the proper direction. If you have any questions regarding using it, you may ask your pharmacist. Before applying eye drops, wash your hands to avoid any chances of contamination. Do not touch the dropper tip or avoid touching the dropper with your eye or any other contaminated surface.

Remove contact lenses, if you use them, before applying eye drops. Wait for at least 10 to 20 minutes before reapplying contact lenses. Before applying, check the product visually. Do not use it if there is any color change or cloudy appearance. Discard the product away from your pets and children. It is preferred to use eye drops at least 3 to 4 times per day or as mentioned by your doctor.

Method of application

Tilt your head backward while looking at the horizon. Pull your lower eyelid with your one hand. Hold the dropper directly over the eye and place 1 drop into the eye or as many drops as mentioned by your doctor. Look downward with a gently closed eye for about 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose. Do not blink or rub your eyes.

Replace the dropper cap tightly rather than rins after every use. If you use other eye-related medications like ointments or drops, wait at least five minutes before applying any other medication. Use eye drops before applying ointment to the eye. Overuse of these medications can cause redness of the eye. Consult your doctor if you find any such symptoms.

What are the possible side effects of using kids eye drops?

Kids eye drops may be associated with a variety of side effects related to the eye. Here are some of the common side effects of using kids eye drops.

• Stinging or redness in the eye
• Widened pupils
• Blurred vision

If you find any of these symptoms after using eye drops, consult your pharmacist or optometrist to avoid any serious reaction. Most people do not usually get serious side effects from using eye drops. But, there may be serious side effects of using kids eye drops. If you have any of the following, immediately visit your doctor.

• Eye pain
• Worsening redness or itching
• Swelling around the eyes
• Vision problems
• Tremors or shakiness
• Irregular, fast, or pounding heartbeat
• Headache
• Sweating
• Weakness
• Nervousness

These drugs may pose serious allergic reactions. It is quite rare but may require proper care. Here are the symptoms of any allergic reaction.

• Rash, itching, or swelling
• Dizziness
• Trouble breathing

These are not the complete list of side effects. If you find anything unusual by using these kids eye drops, it is better to consult the doctor to avoid any harsh consequences.

Also read: 7 Month Old Sleep Schedule

Can a kids eye drop interact with any other medicines?

If you are using kids eye drops along with any other eye-related medicine, there are chances that both these medications can interact with each other. Interaction of the medicines can either reduce the efficacy or may exaggerate the side effects. It is very important to consider a doctor’s consultation before using any medicine. In addition, you must mention all the medicines you are using for any problem. It will guide your doctor to prescribe the best possible medicine for your problem.

Conclusion

Kids eye drops are used to treat different kinds of eye problems. These eye drops are in the form of saline and are commonly used as artificial tears to avoid dry eye-like problems. In addition, eye drops may contain multiple pharmaceutical agents to treat a variety of eye problems ranging from allergic reactions to eye infections.

If your kid is suffering from any eye problem, do not start self-medication. The eye is a very sensitive sensory organ. Consult your optometrist regarding the condition of your child. If your doctor suggests any eye drops, follow the instructions of the doctor. Use them according to the prescribed way. Overusing the eye drops can induce multiple side effects or sensitivity reactions. If you find any of the above-mentioned side effects, consult your doctor immediately

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)