Which OTC meds are used for dry eye treatment?

Before starting discussion on dry eye treatment, you should know what this condition is. It is a condition where the tear production in the eyes is reduced to the point where eyes become dry. It could be temporary due to environmental factors or chronic.

Chronic dry eye disease could worsen or improved with time but it would never go completely. You will need proper treatment for dry eye.

Over-the-counter-drugs (OTC)

There are artificial tears and ointments that can cure moderate dry eye symptoms. The artificial tears come in preservative-based eye drops and vials. Preservative-based eye drops have long shelf life but vials are used for one time.

Ointments can also help and they work better than the eye-drops but they cause blurry eyes. It is better to use an ointment before going to bed.

Prescription medicines

If the condition persists even after OTC drugs, you should go to an eye specialist that will prescribe an eye drop and anti-biotic medicines. The prescription drugs will reduce inflammation of your eyelids to bring fast relief from dryness of eyes.

Eye inserts

An insert is a small tube of the size of a grain. An insert is placed between eye ball and lower eyelid. The medicine releases medicine and keeps eye moist all the day. Placing inserts is like wearing contacts.

Procedures

In addition to medicines, there are certain procedures that can help in curing the problem.

Closing tear ducts partially or completely with silicone plugs is an option when the medicines don’t help. These plugs are removable.

Wearing special contacts that prevent loss of tears helps in curing dryness in eyes. This treatment helps especially when the problem is due to quick loss of tears.

Clearing blocked oil glands also helps in preventing dryness of eyes. It is a procedure that involves placing contact lenses like a shield on the eyes.

Lifestyle changes

If you apply certain changes in your lifestyle, you can prevent dryness of eyes.

·         Wearing sunglasses with side shield can prevent loss of tears

·         Blink your eyes several times while doing one type of task like reading and looking at computer

·         Use a cool mist humidifier to keep air moist

·         Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

·         Quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke

Look for more options for dry eye treatment. Or visit a doctor for help. An eye specialist will examine your eyes and prescribe drugs that will give fast relief from dryness of eyes.