If you use eye drops frequently and that too without any medical advice; take care. Frequent use of eye drops could damage eyes and might even cause complete loss of vision, warned the Hong Kong Association of Private Eye Surgeons (HKAPES).

According to HKAPES, most eye drops contain preservatives that are potentially harmful to eyes. If they are used frequently – more than six times a day; preservative residues could accumulate, causing chronic irritation and even infection of the cornea. In severe cases it could lead to permanent loss of vision.

A survey conducted by the University of Hong Kong found that very few people consulted an ophthalmologist before using eye drops. The survey revealed that most users of eye drops were unaware of such risk. And of those who were aware of the harmful effects of preservatives, nearly 70 percent had no idea that they were present in most eye-drops.

According to John Chang, President, HKAPES, preservatives, especially detergent, could lead to blurred vision and lengthen the period of recovery after eye surgery. Contact-lens users could also be at risk because the lenses act as a reservoir for the chemicals.

“When buying eye-drops, people should consider the composition, dosage and the side-effects,” Chan said. People should consult an ophthalmologist every two years, advised HKAPES.