fear of infection after antivegf

[shahabbahrain]

I am very much afraid of infection and loosing my sight...how do you deal with this fear?

[Hidden]

Hi, you just have to be consistent but nothing is 100%.

Wear overspecs with side pieces to keep out dust. I wear them after inj and for a week or so outside if windy.

Don't get water in your eye after inj. for 5days.No swimming.

After d2 I gently wipe eyebrow, lid and lashes with clean cloth dampened with colloidal silver solution for rest of the week.(only buy from reputable source). This is something I've used for cuts and grazed for years so I trust it but I'm not recommending it , you have to make your own mind up about it. Research on the internet.

Regularly wash hands with anti bacterial soap and rinse well (this is proven better than hand gels you don't rinse off).

Don't rub eye for at least a week. If you have to, use back of finger as less likely to be contaminated.

On inj day I always have clean towels and bedding even if only a day old.

Don't get too worried it's rare to get infection. Just be mindful.

Best wishes x

[Hidden]

Infection after anti-VEGF is very rare. It is avoided by the cleansing of the area around the eye usually with an iodine based solution and an antibiotic drop following the injection. The eyelashes appear to be the major concern and it is usual to clean these thoroughly pre injection.

In the very rare occasion of infection I have known it to be resolved by antibiotics and/or vitrectomy.

[Ayayay80]

Hi shahabbahrain

Fear is a natural reaction to anything unfamiliar to us. It is part of our survival mechanism, but please, do no allow it to take over and rule your life. Things are seldom as bad as we imagine. Concentrate on the good things in your life. I know it easier said than done, but remember, you are not alone. And when ever you feel the need to share your anxieties, we are here to listen. We have all been there and understand your concerns.

Good Luck

[Rosalyn-helpline Partner]

Dear shahabbahrain,

I am sorry to read of your concerns.

Have you started having injections?

Where are you based?

Please contact us on the Macular Society helpline. The Macular Society helpline is open 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday on 0300 3030 111.

Alternately, you can contact us via:

[e-mail]

Kind regards,

[Eyelet]

Lots of good advice here , and yes we all have the same fears. But follow the rules do as your medical staff tell you and all should be well.