The Betadine discussion
I have been receiving eye injections for wet macular degeneration - in both eyes - with different episodes of Betadyne reaction that has almost had me considering stopping the shots. I spoke with my doctor and staff. I HAVE to have the Betadine, to ward off any potential infection. BUT - they are now administering a Betadine swab, instead of the drop(s). The swab goes right on my numbed eye ball, right where the needle will enter and there is NO further after-Betadine burning, stinging, agony. None. Just thought I would share. Ask your retinal doctor to use a "Betadine swab" instead of the drops.
I am so glad your doctor worked with you to find a compromise on the betadine. I get a drop of betadine plus a swab across my lashes. They are very good to rinse it all out. Thank you for sharing your experience. Regards, Sharon Moore patient leader 
This is so helpful to hear! I know a lot of our community members have experienced negative reactions to betadine before, so I'm hopeful that this will be useful to those who are hesitant to receive more injections due to this reaction. Wishing you well! Best, Abby (Team member).
I suffer terribly after my injections. The beta dine is the reason. My Dr. Always tells me I have such deep set eyes, it's hard g o get it all flushed out. She does try. Sometimes she gets more out than others. I usually suffer for a day and a half to 2 days. Going in tomorrow for another appointment. I'm sure I will get a shot. It's been 5 weeks since last shot. Even though I have wet AMD, they're only treating my good eye. Right eye isn't very good!!
I am so sorry you suffer with the betadine antiseptic used to prevent infection. The tech has rinsed my eyes 3 times after both my injections. I can see how deep set eyes might make rinsing it all out a challenge. I was told that too much rinsing can also cause further irritation. I have found that gel drops stop the discomfort completely. I hope tomorrow’s injection goes well. Regards, Sharon Moore patient leader
Diagnosed w wet Mac D. in both eyes. Absolute agony after numbing wears off. Have not leaked or bled in either eye (tk God) in 20 months. There is an alternative to BETADINE but my Retina clinic does not use it. Will not prescribe pain meds either.
If I start to leak or bleed again I'll ask for the swab. TK u so much. I also was considering stopping the injections. I stopped my blood thinner & besides Areds I take a subliminal
Supplement twice a day. Quite expensive. My GP tells me if I stop the blood thinner, possible stroke due to my AFIB, of I stop the injections, possible blind-- ness. Hell of a choice. I'm
76 and have never experienced the agonizing pain, post injection, in my life. Stay safe.Regarding numbing drops for at-home, after-shot use - my retina specialist says a resoundinig "NO" to that. They will not allow numbing drops for home use. My best suggestion is to use a Betadyne swab, and not the drops, for after-injection pain and agony. I am not surprised that your doctor said no to numbing drops after the injection. Pain is part of our defense system. If our eye stays numb we might be unaware of a potential problem. Rubbing the eye can cause corneal abrasions which you would not be aware of it if the eye were numb. Thanks for joining the conversation. Regards, Sharon Moore patient leader
