Eye Injections at Royal Bournemouth Hospital

Eye injections are used to treat various eye conditions such as Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Diabetic Retinopathy, and Retinal Vein Occlusion to prevent further vision loss and sometimes even improve vision.

On the day of your appointment, ensure you have someone to accompany you as your vision might be temporarily blurred. Do not wear any eye makeup, and follow any specific instructions that your doctor provided.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the injection. Your eye will be numbed with anesthetic drops to minimise any pain.

The actual injection only takes a few minutes, but you should plan to be at the hospital for about one to two hours to allow time for preparation and post-procedure observations.

Common side effects include temporary soreness and redness in the eye. Occasionally, patients may experience floaters, blurred vision, or infection. Serious complications are rare but can include increased eye pressure or retinal detachment.

The frequency of eye injections varies depending on your specific condition and its severity. Your doctor will discuss a tailored treatment plan with you, which may start with monthly injections followed by less frequent treatments.

It is advised not to drive immediately after an eye injection as your vision may be temporarily affected. Please arrange for someone to drive you home or consider alternative transport.

No, your eye will not typically be patched. You may experience some temporary blurriness or irritation, but normal vision should return within a few hours.

Avoid rubbing or pressing on the treated eye and refrain from strenuous activities or swimming for a couple of days. Follow any additional instructions given by your healthcare provider.

If you experience severe pain, a sudden decrease in vision, or signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), contact the hospital immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

Yes, follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your condition and the effectiveness of the treatment. Your doctor will schedule these based on your specific needs.

Yes, many eye injections for conditions such as AMD or Diabetic Retinopathy are covered by the NHS. Check with your healthcare provider or the hospital for specific coverage details.

It is recommended to avoid wearing contact lenses for at least a day after the injection to reduce the risk of infection and irritation.

If you miss an appointment, contact the hospital as soon as possible to reschedule. Regular treatments are crucial for managing your eye condition effectively.

You can contact Royal Bournemouth Hospital's Ophthalmology Department directly via their main phone number or visit their website for more information and guidance.