For some people, the thought of having injections in their eyes is more than a bit unnerving. Are they really necessary? Will they hurt? How many will I need?
At in LOCATION1, we understand our patients’ concerns and are here to help.
Below, you’ll find helpful information on what intraocular injections are and the conditions they treat.
What are Intraocular Injections?
Intraocular injections, sometimes called intravitreal injections, are a method of administering medications directly into the eye using a tiny needle.
The gel-like fluid within the eye, called the vitreous, comes in direct contact with the retina. This makes the vitreous the perfect receptor for medications used to treat retinal disease.
When are Intraocular Injections Used?
Your ophthalmologist may prescribe and administer intraocular injections to manage and treat a variety of retinal conditions and diseases associated with vision loss, including:
- Wet macular degeneration
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal vein occlusion
- Diabetic macular edema
- Uveitis
- Cystoid macular edema
- Endophthalmitis
Common intraocular injections include:
- Anti-VEGF (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor)
- Steroids
- Antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral medications
Are Intraocular Injections Painful?
Your ophthalmologist will apply local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Eye injections are virtually painless and take only a few minutes to administer.
What are the Potential Side Effects of Intraocular Injections?
As with any other medication or procedure, there are potential side effects that have been associated with intraocular injections. These include:
- Eye pain
- Foreign body sensation
- Eye infection or inflammation
- Tears in the retina
Your ophthalmologist in LOCATION1 will discuss the potential risk factors during your consultation.
Intraocular Injections and Eye Disease Management in LOCATION1
Intraocular injections have become the gold standard for treating and managing several eye diseases and can be an essential part of preserving vision.
Speak with us about the benefits and risks of intraocular injections. To schedule your appointment, call in LOCATION1 today.
Our practice serves patients from CITY 1, CITY 2, CITY 3, and CITY 4, and surrounding communities.