Are Over-the-Counter Eye Drops Good for Dry Eye?

Dry eyes can feel like a constant irritation, as if there is something gritty or sandy stuck in your eyes that won’t go away. They may burn, sting or itch, making it uncomfortable to blink or keep them open for long periods of time. Some people experience redness and sensitivity to light, while others notice a heavy, tired feeling in their eyes. Confusingly, dry eyes can also cause excessive watering as the body tries to compensate for the lack of moisture. This discomfort can make everyday activities like reading, using screens or being in air-conditioned environments particularly frustrating. 

Certain triggers can make dry eyes worse. These include:

• Screen Time-Prolonged use of computers, smartphones or other digital devices can reduce blinking frequency, which is essential for spreading tears evenly over the surface of the eye

• Dry or Windy Environments-These conditions increase tear production, reducing moisture on the eye’s surface leading to dryness and irritation

• Contact Lenses-Wearing contact lenses can cause dry eye by reducing oxygen flow to the cornea and trapping debris or moisture, which can irritate the eye’s surface and disrupt tear production

• Allergies- Seasonal or environmental allergies can lead to inflammation and dryness in the eyes, especially when combined with irritants like pollen

• Medications- Certain medications like antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants and blood pressure medications can decrease tear production

• Aging- The tear glands produce fewer tears due to aging and changes in the body’s hormonal balance, decreased gland function and natural wear and tear on the tissues

• Smoking and Alcohol- Smoking can damage the tear glands, increasing inflammation and promoting the evaporation of tears; alcohol depletes the body’s hydration levels

• Medical Conditions- Autoimmune diseases (e.g. Sjogren’s syndrome), diabetes, thyroid disorders and blepharitis can interfere with tear production

• Hormonal Changes- Pregnancy, menopause or hormonal birth control can alter tear production

The most common solution to alleviate dry eye is artificial tears. Are over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops good for dry eye? Yes, OTC eye drops can be highly effective for managing dry eye, especially for mild to moderate cases. These drops work by providing temporary relief from dryness, irritation and discomfort, helping to lubricate the eyes and keep them moist. By acting as artificial tears, OTC eye drops restore hydration to the surface of the eye, soothing irritation caused by environmental factors like dry air, wind or smoke. 

Not all eye drops are created equal, and choosing the right ones depends on your specific needs and the severity of your dry eye symptoms. While they all serve the same purpose, there are different formulations where some are better suited for certain conditions than others. For mild dryness, lubricating drops are effective, with thicker gels or ointments recommended for longer-lasting relief, especially at night. If you need frequent use, preservative-free drops are gentler on the eyes. Some drops include added benefits like anti-inflammatory ingredients, omega-3s or medicated treatments for more severe dry eye symptoms. In cases of chronic or moderate to severe dryness, it’s best to consult with an eye care professional to find the most appropriate solution. 
If you are experiencing persistent dry eye or are unsure about which over-the-counter eye drops to choose, consulting with an eye care professional at Skyline Vision Clinic can help guide you to the best options. Call our office at 719-630-3937 or click WEBSITE for more information.