The scratchy, burning feeling and irritation of dry eyes can be very uncomfortable. Eye strain from computer use, certain medical conditions, and smoky or windy environments are just a few dry eye causes. Lubricating eye drops—also called artificial tears—can help relieve this discomfort.
What Are Lubricating Eye Drops?
Lubricating eye drops, also called artificial tears, provide moisture and relief for dry eyes due to temporary causes, like being tired or being in a dry climate.
How Do Artificial Tears Relieve Eye Dryness?
Lubricating eye drops work by adding some of the same elements that your tears naturally have. This helps your tear film work more effectively to protect the surface of your eyes.
You can get lubricating eye drops without a prescription. There are many brands to choose from, but keep in mind that no single brand works best for all types of dry eye. You might need to try a few different brands to find the one that works best for your eyes.
For more severe dry eyes, you may need to use a lubricating ointment or gel. These are thicker than regular drops and stay in your eyes longer. They may blur your vision temporarily, so most people prefer to use them just before bedtime.
Are Lubricating Eye Drops Safe?
Lubricating eye drops are generally safe to use as often as you need them if they do not have preservatives.
Eye drops with preservatives have chemicals that are designed to keep bacteria from growing in the bottles once they are opened. Many people find that the preservatives irritate their eyes, particularly if they have more severe dry eye. Many eye doctors recommend not using eye drops with preservatives more than four times a day.
Preservative-free eye drops have fewer additives. They are usually recommended for people with moderate to severe dry eye. They are often best for those who use artificial tears more than four times a day.
Artificial tears can have side effects, such as blurry vision. It is also possible to have an allergic reaction to the medication. Symptoms can include itchiness, swelling, breathing problems, feeling dizzy, or feeling sick. If you see any symptoms like this, stop using the eye drops and see a doctor right away.
Are Over-The-Counter Eye Drops Safe? – Video Answer
Red Eye Relief Can Spell Trouble for Dry Eyes
Looking for an eye drop to relieve dry, red eyes? Be careful which eye drop you choose. Eye drops that are marketed as red eye relievers are actually decongestants. While decongestants make your eyes look less red, they also can make your dry eye symptoms worse over time.
Why Don't These Eye Drops Work?
If you have tried different brands of lubricating eye drops and your eyes are still uncomfortable, talk with your ophthalmologist. There may be other options for safely and effectively treating your dry eyes.