Advice Needed After Chalazion Removal
Greetings! I’m a 39-year-old female who has been dealing with a persistent issue involving a sty on my upper left eyelid for the past month. This situation has evolved into a chalazion. My experience included several steps: - Initially dealing with preseptal cellulitis affecting my upper eyelid, - Completing a prescribed course of doxycycline, - Utilizing Neomycin combined with Polymyxin and Dexamethasone eye drops to reduce the chalazion after the infection subsided, - Encountering a possible allergic reaction to the Neomycin drops, which led to switching to another treatment, - An unnecessary follow-up with an optometrist when I should have seen an ophthalmologist, - Starting to use Prednisolone Acetate steroid drops to alleviate itching linked to the allergic reaction, - Finally securing a last-minute appointment with an ophthalmologist yesterday, where they performed a surgical excision of the chalazion. I was using the Prednisolone drops to manage the itchiness caused by the allergic reaction to Neomycin. They seemed effective in easing the discomfort, but my last dose was given just before the chalazion removal. After the surgery, I inquired with the nurse regarding the continuation of these steroid drops. She indicated I could discontinue them. Unfortunately, I didn't frame my question properly and failed to clarify my real intention, which was to ask whether I could keep using them after the procedure. It seems they might have misunderstood my inquiry as a request to stop using the drops altogether. I’m now left wondering if it’s permissible to use the Prednisolone steroid drops after my chalazion has been excised. The only other medication prescribed to me was Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment. I have a feeling that using the steroid drops might still be okay, and I’m inclined to apply them unless I receive advice to the contrary. Any insights would be appreciated!
Answers (1)
9/6/2025, 5:10:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s important to address your concerns regarding the use of Prednisolone acetate drops following your recent chalazion removal. After such a procedure, managing any discomfort and ensuring proper healing is crucial.
Key Points:
- Discontinuation of Steroid Drops: The nurse's recommendation to discontinue the Prednisolone acetate drops might have been based on the typical post-operative care protocols.
- Use of Erythromycin Ointment: This antibiotic ointment is prescribed to prevent infection and should be your primary treatment following surgery.
Explanation: Prednisolone acetate drops are steroids that can reduce inflammation, but after surgical excision of a chalazion, overuse can potentially interfere with healing or mask signs of infection. Your recent allergy to Neomycin is also a factor to consider — if you're sensitive to specific medications, choosing the right treatment becomes even more crucial.
It's understandable to feel uncertain about the application of the steroid drops, especially given that they relieved your itching prior to surgery. However, standard practice often involves a careful assessment of the need for continued steroid use after such procedures.
Next Steps:
-
Discontinue the Prednisolone Drops: It's best to abide by the nurse's direction and stop using the steroid drops unless you have specific guidance stating otherwise.
-
Continue Using Erythromycin Ointment: Use this ointment as directed to prevent infection at the surgery site. It is crucial for your healing process.
-
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep an eye on your eyelid for any signs of unusual symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.
-
Follow Up if Necessary: If you continue experiencing discomfort or itchiness, or if you notice any concerning changes, consider reaching out to your ophthalmologist for further clarification about the use of steroid drops or exploring additional options for symptom relief.
Your healing and comfort are essential, so staying in touch with your healthcare provider for guidance and support during this time is important. If you have further questions about your recovery, feel free to ask!
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