Customer question:
Can barley ointment be bought in a pharmacy? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Yes and no; some remedies for barley can usually be bought at the pharmacy. Still, other medicines, in particular, will be prescribed by your doctor and then dispensed by the pharmacist.
It is crucial not to try to puncture or squeeze the barley as this can further spread the infection. If the barley persists for over a few days, becomes increasingly painful, affects vision, or recurs, it is imperative to see a doctor, preferably an ophthalmologist. In some cases, prescription drugs or other treatments may be necessary.
What causes barley on the eye?
Barley is a localized infection or inflammation of the eyelid. The most common cause is infection with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. This bacteria is often found on the skin and, under certain conditions, can enter and infect the tiny oil glands at the base of the eyelashes.
The eyelids have specialized glands called meibomian glands that produce a lubricating oil. If one of these glands becomes blocked, it can cause a chalazion, a lump in the eyelid. Although a chalazion differs from a barleycorn, it can look similar and sometimes confused.
Risk factors for barley include:
- stress
- poor eyelid hygiene
- old or contaminated makeup
- touching eyes with dirty hands
- hormonal changes
- basic health conditions
- chronic blepharitis
Does barley on the eye go away by itself?
Barley often goes away on its own without the need for medical intervention. Sometimes, the doctor may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics if the infection spreads or the barley does not go away. In rare cases, a doctor may need to drain a particularly large or stubborn stye surgically.
The following measures can be taken to promote healing and relieve symptoms:
- Keep the eye area clean: Make sure you clean the area gently and avoid squeezing the barley, as this can spread the infection.
- Avoid makeup and contact lenses: While barley is active, it is a good idea to avoid wearing eye makeup and contact lenses to prevent further irritation or contamination.
- Warm compress: If you place a warm compress on the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes several times a day, you can help the barley to open and drain faster.
How can we remove barley on the eye with home care?
Home care measures you can use to promote healing and relieve discomfort:
- Warm compress: soak a clean, soft cloth in warm water, wring out the excess water, and gently hold the warm cloth against the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this several times a day.
- Proper eyelid hygiene: clean the eyelid gently with a mild baby shampoo diluted in warm water or with a gentle eyelid cleanser. Do not use allergenic and intensive soaps and chemicals.
- Don't squeeze the barley: avoid the temptation to pop the barley like a pimple, as this can spread the infection.
- Avoid eye makeup and contact lenses: avoid wearing eye makeup and contact lenses while barley is active to prevent further irritation or contamination.
- Hand hygiene: avoid touching the eyes and always wash your hands before and after touching the eyelid or the area around the eyes.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Pain relievers can help reduce pain and swelling. Make sure you use them as directed and don't interfere with any other medications you may be taking.
- Avoid eye irritants: avoid smoke and dust, which could worsen the irritation.
Can barley on the eye be painful?
Yes, it can be pretty painful. Although barley can be very uncomfortable, it is usually not harmful to vision and often goes away independently. If the style becomes increasingly painful, does not improve within a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as vision problems, you must consult a doctor.
What does barley ointment on the eye usually contain?
Barley ointments usually contain antibiotics to treat or prevent bacterial infections. Active ingredients in these ointments are usually intended to fight the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, which is barley's most common causative agent.
Here are some typical ingredients found in barley relief ointments:
- Bacitracin: an antibiotic that works against a wide range of bacteria.
- Polymyxin B, often combined with other antibiotics, helps target a broader spectrum of bacteria.
- Neomycin: another antibiotic often found in combination with bacitracin and polymyxin B.
- Erythromycin: a prescription antibiotic ointment used for various bacterial infections, including eye infections.
- Tobramycin: another prescription antibiotic occasionally used for bacterial eye infections.
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