Can I use regular eye drops between doses of medicated eyedrops for scratchy eyes?

Question

Hi there -- Can I use regular eye drops in-between the ev 4 hrs medicated eyedrops (Tobradex) to add some lubrication? My eyes are soooo scratchy-feeling. Thanks!

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

The blink is often impaired for the first few days from the swelling, and your eye will get dry.  This can create a sandy sensation or some itching of the eyes.  I have all of my patients use artificial tears after the surgery along with the eye ointment.  If it doesn't improve, you should see an ophthalmologist.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Although the Tobradex is a steroid/antibiotic combination.  Some corneas really don't like the antibiotic which can chew up the corneal surface.  There can be other reasons for the scratchiness as well.  I think you indicated in your other post that you are having trouble seeing clearly.  This also points to corneal drying or irritation as a basis for your symptoms. If your surgeon is not board certified in ophthalmology, such as a facial plastic surgeon or general plastic surgeon, they really lack the basic equipment to examine the eye surfaces and determine why your eyes are irritated and the vision blurry.  I could certainly guess what might help your eye comfort but my best advise is have your eyes examined by a cornea specialist or a fellowship trained oculoplastic surgeon.  It might be that you are having a reaction to the tobradex or having some other issue.  Yes, part of the solution might be to use an artificial tear drop.  But without an examination it is just guessing.  Don't guess here.  Call your surgeon and if they can't make the eyes immediately more comfortable consider seeing your general ophthalmologist or one of the subspecialists mentioned.

Jill Hessler, MD · Answer

You can combine artificial tears to help lubricate the eyes while using Tobradex drops.  You should see an ophthalmologist though to identify the cause your scratchy eyes if you haven't already done so.  Are you experiencing post surgical dryness, do you have an infection, could you have a corneal abrasion?  These conditions should be evaluated are treated differently.  Hope you get feeling better soon.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you are talking about artificial tears, which are basically saline eyedrops, it is perfectly fine to use them in between your medicated drops. This can help keep the eyes well lubricated while they heal.

Angela Sturm, MD · Answer

You may use artificial tears as often as needed between the doses of Tobradex.  That will keep the eye lubricated and more comfortable.  Make sure you let your surgeon know about your scratchy eyes!

Marc Cohen, MD (retired) · Answer

When you say regular eye drops I assume that you mean artificial tear drops.  Artificial tears tend to be very good for most peoples eyes.  It is perfectly safe to use artificial tear drops along with medicated drops.  The key with all eye drops is to take them at least 5 minutes apart.  The eye can only absorb so much at one time and you will dilute the effect of one drop with another if you do not wait between drops.

Can I use regular eye drops between doses of medicated eyedrops for scratchy eyes?

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