Breastfeeding and eye drops

[varicoseveined]

I have a swollen sore eyelid and popped to the chemist who sold me a tube of eye ointment containing chloramphenicol. The leaflet says I should check with my pharmacist/doctor if you're breastfeeding. I'm trying to get hold of my GP now, but is it generally OK to have eye drops or ointment while pregnant or breastfeeding? Or is there a good alternative?

Should be fine, its topical and it's also prescribed for very small babies with eye infections

but

did you know that the best thing to use for eye infections is breastmilk?! It's full of antbodies and it works a treat. I've never needed to use it o myself and dh wouldn't let me but it has always cleared up dd2's eyes really well. In fact we knew she had blocked tear ducts rather than an infection when it didn't work.

Ahh.. if only I read this 10 minutes earlier. just used my first dose of eye ointment. Should've tried breastmilk first.

Yes, GP said it's ok to use chloramphenicol whilst breastfeeding. Have to say I'm still pretty hesistant and wish I didn't have to use it.

You'll be fine to use it. However breastmilk is THE BEST thing for eye infections, as tiger says. Express a bit onto a clean finger tip and wipe it over. Use a different finger for the other eye or wash your hands in between (and after). I've used it on myself and my children to great effect.

Euphrasia is a herbal eye lotion which is also extremely effective. You put a few drops in cooled, boiled water and bathe the eye with it. It doesn't work as fast as breastmilk though.

Was also going to say breast milk is the best thing for eye infections.

Thanks all! My eyelid is so sore, going to try this asap

BTW, how often should I use BM on the eye?

don't use your finger - get an eye dropper from the chemist and use that. :)