Finding The Right Eye Drops To Relieve Eye Irritations

There are many medications on the market today that treat a number of eye conditions

. Of all these medications, eye drops are perhaps the most common form of eye medication. They enter the eye directly, making them highly effective as well as reducing the risk of any side effects since the medication is confined to the eye. There are essentially two types of optic drops, non-prescription and prescription, and when administered correctly are very successful in treating a variety of conditions.

This article provides you with some useful information about the various eye conditions that can be treated using these types of medications.

Non-prescription eye drops are available over the counter without the need for a prescription and are used to treat minor eye irritations. These products are safe to use and can be effective but are only designed for short term use and if these conditions continue then it is recommended that medical treatment be sought.

The two most common non-prescription eye medications are:

Artificial tear solutions - These drops are used to relieve irritated and dry eyes. As the name suggests these solutions lubricate the eye surface in the same way natural tears do. They assist in removing any grit or bacteria that may be causing discomfort and moistening the eyelids.

Decongestants - This product has no health benefits but is used to remove the redness from the eyes. It works by constricting blood vessels.

Prescription eye medications are only available by obtaining a prescription from a doctor. They are used for the treatment of more serious or prolonged eye conditions such as:

Allergies - These anti-allergy medications contain anti-histamines that work by reducing the chemical, histamine, which is released during an allergic reaction. Many people successfully treat eye irritations caused by allergies with non-prescription medicines but for more serious or painful eye allergies anti-histamine drops may be required after seeking medical advice.

Eye Inflammation - There are a number of things that may cause eye inflammation and anti-inflammatories are used to treat these conditions. These come in the form of steroid and non-steroid medications and some side-effects are associated with these and hence should only be taken after consulting a doctor.

Bacterial infections - Prolonged or more serious bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, may require the use of antibiotics.

Glaucoma - Glaucoma is a condition that can cause permanent damage to the optic nerve in the eye and thus requires immediate treatment. Glaucoma eye medications alleviate excess pressure in the eye by decreasing the amount of fluid produced or increasing the drainage of this fluid from the eye. A variety of side effects are associated with these medications but these are usually tolerated in order to prevent the lasting damage that glaucoma may cause.

Eye drops are also commonly used during eye examinations. Some of these are used in order to cause the pupil to dilate thereby making it easier for doctors to examine the inside of the eye. Anaesthetic drops are also used to numb the eye area during procedures that may otherwise be painful or cause discomfort.

The type and seriousness of the condition being treated will determine the medication needed. As a first port of call many people will tend to try over the counter medications to relieve eye irritations but if these persist or become more extreme a diagnosis should be sought by a doctor and prescription medication may be required.

by: Lawrence White

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