Artificial Tears

Dry Eyes: How to select eye drops for Dry Eyes?

Artificial tears bring temporary relief to some mild symptoms of dry eyes. Conditions that do not respond to artificial tears alone will need to take additional treatment options.

What should I look for when selecting artificial tears?

By lubricating your eyes, artificial tears aim to reduce dryness and inflammation, two factors closely associated with each other in dry eye disease. Others work to decrease tear evaporation by adding oil components. Artificial tears also may contain thickening agents to keep the solution on the surface of your eyes longer.

There are two categories of artificial tears:

• Eye drops with preservatives. This type often comes in bottles and contains preservatives that discourage the growth of bacteria once the bottle has been opened. The preservatives may irritate your eyes, especially if you have moderate or severe dry eyes.
• Preservative-free eye drops. This type has fewer additives and is generally recommended if you apply artificial tears more than four times a day, or if you have moderate or severe dry eyes. Preservative-free eye drops may come in single-dose vials or multi-dose bottles.

If you have not experienced relief with these efforts, make an appointment with our doctors who can prescribe other treatments.

Vision Source Insight Eyecare – Dry Eye Specialists In Sandy Springs

It is estimated that 20% of the US population suffer from Dry Eye Disease (DED) or Dry Eye Syndrome. Though the condition is not associated exclusively with aging, its prevalence increases in patients over the age of 40. DED patients who experience dry, gritty or scratchy eyes, or increased sensitivity to wind or air conditioning may suffer from a condition that is treatable with experienced medical attention. Dr. Chen is our clinic’s dry eye specialist in Sandy Springs, Chastain Park, Dunwoody, and Buckhead.

Dry eyes can result from a variety of sources including:

• Medications
• Poor tear production
• Unstable tear composition
• Computer/screen usage
• Allergies
• Contact lens wear
• Certain medical conditions: Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes
• Eye surgery
• Environmental factors: smoky or windy conditions, low humidity

Vision Source Insight Eyecare Dry Eye Consultation:

Dry Eye is a common eye condition that can create discomfort and reduce the quality of life. The first step towards relief from Dry Eye Syndrome is a dry eye disease evaluation, so please contact our office for an appointment, or let us know that you are experiencing symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome at your next visit. Call or Text for an appointment: (404) 250-1680.