corneal damage from numbing drops

Can eye numbing drops cause dryness and air-sensitivity?

[Christopher C Shen, MD]

Numbing drops used routinely during an eye exam do not typically cause persistent eye problems.  However, if used chronically, they can lead to toxic reactions on the cornea.  This is why numbing drops are not prescribed to patients and this scenario only typically results if they are obtained illegally (i.e. stolen from the office and used inappropriately)