Is it safe to use get-the-red-out drops while I use Genteal drops that my doctor recommended for dry eye?
NOV 30, 2015
Question:
I was recently told that I have dry eyes by my eye doctor and he instructed me to purchase Genteal drops and gel. I was wondering if it is safe to use this with Visine to get the red away. I also heard about rebound redness. Is there a preferred eye drop to remove the redness immediately that doesn't cause rebound redness?
Answer:
You have brought up a very good point. Drops that reduce the redness typically cause the blood vessel on the surface of the eye (in the conjunctiva) to shrink. These agents almost always are irritating to the eye and cause “rebound” redness when the drop wears off. Dry eye is a common cause of eyes becoming red. I recommend that you stop the use of all drops whose purpose is to get the red out and to only use the medications that treat the dryness: the cause of the problem. Be prepared, this process can take a little while to accomplish. I suggest that you discuss this matter fully with your ophthalmologist.