This is because processes like tear production tend to slow down as we age, Dr. Hormone fluctuations, illness, and medications may play a role, as well as aging.

If you anticipate using lubricating eye drops for a long period of time, experts recommend opting for a preservative-free formula.Ĭonditions such as allergies, dust, sun exposure, wind, excessive screen time, altitude, rubbing and irritation, and extended contact lens wear can all exacerbate dry eyes, says Dr. Yes, but it’s always important to follow the instructions on the label. Your Questions, Answered Is it OK to use eye drops every day? Other concerning symptoms include severe pain, excessive discharge, light sensitivity, blurry vision, and worsening redness. Generally speaking, pain or discomfort that persists after the use of over-the-counter eye drops warrants a visit to your doctor, says Dr. If you only plan to use eye drops on occasion, preservatives shouldn’t be a big deal, but Boparai recommends a preservative-free formula for those who use drops frequently. Short-term exposure to BAK is safe, but long-term use can damage the surface of your eye, he adds. The most commonly used one is benzalkonium chloride (BAK), says Dr. Some eye drops contain preservatives to extend their shelf-life. Emollient drops may contain natural oils, and hydrating ones may contain humectants like hyaluronic acid. The most common ones are polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, propylene glycol, carboxymethylcellulose, povidone, and glycerin, which are all safe for ongoing usage, says Dr. There are quite a few different active ingredients that you can find in artificial tears. “Prescription eye drops work best when coupled with eyelid hygiene, preservative-free artificial tears, and lifestyle modifications,” he says. Boparai makes clear that those qualities don’t make prescription drops superior. Prescriptions differ from OTC drops in that they are clinically studied and approved by the Food and Drug Administartion (FDA), but Dr. Boparai adds that the two main types of prescription eye drops for dry eyes are cyclosporine and lifitegrast, which may keep inflammation in check and help your eyes produce tears. Prescription eye drops tend to have more medicine that over-the-counter (OTC) drops can provide, says Dr. Douglas adds that people in menopause or those who have autoimmune diseases may also use them.

People with dry eyes, allergies, pink eye, styes, glaucoma, and those who wear contact lenses may benefit from using eye drops, says Dr. Lastly, artificial tears may shield the eye from stress injury that can result from highly concentrated tears. He adds that some artificial tears may also have occlusive properties, which create a barrier to lock in moisture and prevent evaporation. They can soften, soothe, and protect irritated tissue, or they can attract water to moisturize your eyes. What to Know About Eye Drops How Eye Drops WorkĮye drops, specifically artificial tears, address dryness and irritation in two main ways, explains Dr. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with dry eye disease or are looking for moisturizing drops to keep on hand when irritation creeps up, these are the best expert-approved picks on the market. Drops can also help clear the eyes of any debris, allergens, and pathogens that may lead to inflammation. They also supplement the tear film, which is the protective coating of tears that retains moisture on the eye and contributes to proper lid function, comfort, and clear vision, explains Raymond Douglas, M.D., a Beverly Hills-based oculoplastic surgeon. The good news is, quality lubricating eye drops offer almost immediate relief.Įye drops provide lubrication and moisture for dry eyes. When left untreated, dry eyes can quickly alter daily life and even impact your emotional well-being: Those with dry eye disease are two to three times more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, says Dr. Boparai, M.D., ophthalmic surgeon and CEO of CorneaCare. Dry eye disease affects 30 million Americans and over 300 million people worldwide, says Ranjodh S. If you suffer from dry eyes, you're not alone.

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