subject: Types Of Over The Counter Eye Drops [print this page] Irritated, dry, watery or red eyes are something that is very difficult to live with. Many people suffer from these various eye problems. That is why the market is flooded with a variety of eye drops that are designed to treat these various eye issues and bring some much needed relief to sufferers.
However, if you suffer from an eye problem, then it is important that you carefully consider all the products on the market so that you can choose the one that will best treat your problem.
Artificial Tears:
Eye drops that are labelled as artificial tears are designed to provide lubrication for the eyes. They are best for people who have dry eyes that are not caused by allergies. People who have dry eyes do to overuse, extreme environmental issues or those who have been exposed to something that dries out the eyes can use artificial tears to treat their issue. This type of eye drop is a good treatment for problems that occur every once in a while and not long term issues.
Artificial tears can be either water based or not water based. Those that are not water based contain some type of lubricant and usually will stay in the eye longer than water based drops. Many people prefer them, especially if they use the drops for night time dryness, so that they can get the longer lasting benefits of the drops.
Eye Washes:
Some eye drops are not meant to stay in the eyes, but rather to cleanse the eyes. Eye washes are something that are used in a situation where a person has been exposed to irritants. If you get debris in the eye, then an eye wash can be used to help rinse the debris from the eye.
Decongestants:
Decongestant eye drops help to reduce red eyes and are usually used to treat conditions like conjunctivitis. They can also be used for some types of glaucoma. They should only be used under a doctor's care since they can produce a variety of side effects and may have interactions with other medications.
Antihistamines:
Antihistamine eye drops are made for people who suffer from allergies. These drops can help to reduce redness, irritation, itching and other issues associated with allergies. Allergy eye drop need to be used as part of a regular eye care routine. They generally do not provide immediate relief, but work over time. Some allergy drops may cause dryness that can be treated with an additional lubricating eye drop. However, when using multiple products it is important to discuss it with your eye care doctor so you can be sure you will not be reducing the effect of one drop by using another.
Using eye drops for eye care and for relief of eye problems is common. Many people suffer from issues with their eyes and eye drops have proven to be one of the best ways to deal with such problems. However, if you do not choose the right eye drops then chances are you won't get the relief that you are seeking, so be sure to take time to choose the eye drop that is made to treat your condition.
