Dealing with dry eyes can be more than just a nuisance—it can disrupt everyday life. Luckily, there are many options such as over-the-counter (OTC) artificial tears, which are a convenient and effective way to find relief. At Beyond Vision Center, we are passionate specialists who want to help you find the comfort and clarity you deserve. Let us guide you on your journey to comfortable, healthy vision!
Dry eyes occur when the eyes are unable to lubricate themselves properly, causing itchiness, irritation, or redness. Most commonly, they are due to malfunctions of the tear film, which causes decreased production and low-quality film. This can happen if your eyes do not produce enough tears or if they evaporate too quickly. As we continue to spend more time looking at our screens, these symptoms can become more severe.
According to the National Eye Institute, certain people are at risk for dry eyes. Dry eyes can also occur due to a disruption in the tear film that maintains eye health and lubrication. This film consists of fatty oils, aqueous fluid, and mucus. Problems or imbalances in any of these layers can lead to dry eye disease, often triggered by medical conditions such as hormonal changes, autoimmune diseases, inflamed eyelid glands, or allergies.
Individuals over 50 years old, women, contact lens wearers, those with a known vitamin A deficiency, or those with autoimmune conditions such as lupus may face a heightened risk of dry eye and its related complications. Furthermore, specific medications and increased corneal nerve sensitivity can elevate the likelihood of developing dry eye.
OTC eye drops help provide temporary relief to treat dryness with no prescription needed. They come in various formulations, including preservative-free and those with preservatives, as well as thicker gels and ointments for more severe cases. Common ingredients in eye drops include glycerin, carboxymethylcellulose, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help to mimic the natural tear film, temporarily alleviating dryness and irritation.
Eye drops with preservatives often come in multidose bottles and contain preservatives that discourage the growth of bacteria once the bottle has been opened. However, these preservatives may be irritating, especially if you already suffer from dry eye. Preservative-free eye drops, by contrast, are less likely to irritate and are better suited for frequent use throughout the day.
If you are still unable to relieve your dry eyes, there are other alternatives such as nonprescription gels and gel inserts. These can provide short-term relief but may cause temporary blurred vision.
Another useful treatment is a dry eye mask, which encourages oil production and hydration and is available to buy directly from Beyond Vision Center’s website. Finally, eyelid wipes are another great alternative to remove bacteria and debris from the surface of your eyelids. At our practice, we sell OPTASE® Tea Tree Lid Wipes and Makeup Remover. If you frequently wear eye makeup, this solution is especially convenient.
While it may seem straightforward to use, applying eye drops correctly can significantly improve your treatment. Here's a step-by-step guide:
For most people, using eye drops 3-4 times a day is sufficient. However, depending on the severity of your symptoms, you might need to use them more frequently. Remember, each person is different so apply as needed.
Manufacturing products like artificial tears are especially difficult to create since the drops must be sterile. Recently, the FDA announced a voluntary recall of certain eye drop brands due to potential safety concerns. To ensure your safety and comfort, be aware of which brands are affected and which are safe to use.
Currently, all recalled brands are store brands or little-known brands. Some reputable brand names include Alcon, the manufacturer of SYSTANE®; Bausch and Lomb, known for Soothe XP; Allergan, the maker of REFRESH®; and Johnson & Johnson, producer of Blink®.
At BVC, we carry OPTASE® Dry Eye Intense Drops, Allegro Eye Drops, and MGD Advanced Eye Drops, which cover a range of dry eye needs and are preservative free for safe and comfortable use. Ask our doctors which dry eye treatment is right for you.
Unsure about which eye drops to choose? Visit the Beyond Vision Center website for recommendations from our experienced doctors. Your eye health is our priority, and we are here to help you find the safest and most effective solutions. At Beyond Vision Center, our experts recommend trusted eye drop brands that have met rigorous quality standards. For reliable relief and peace of mind, review the recommended eye drop options on our website.
Keeping your eyes healthy in and out is key in relieving dryness. Several vitamins and nutrients play vital roles in maintaining eye health, and they can be particularly beneficial for alleviating dry eye. While obtaining these nutrients through a balanced diet is ideal, supplementation may be necessary for some individuals, especially those with dietary restrictions or difficulty meeting their nutritional needs through food alone.
In such cases, taking a high-quality multivitamin formulated specifically to treat dry eye can be a convenient way to ensure adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals. For example, TG Omega-3 is often recommended because it contains dietary lipids that help with inflammation, which can cause irritation.
You can find EyePromise® EZ Tears™ dry eye supplement available for purchase at our Carlsbad and Encinitas locations. This daily vitamin is packed with potent Omega-3s and includes natural, ethically-sourced ingredients that helps to relieve occasional dry eye.
While artificial tears offer a solution for many, treating dry eyes may not be as simple for some. When it comes to eye health, seemingly small issues can turn into big problems. If you start to notice your symptoms getting worse, book an appointment and allow us to treat you. Sometimes dry eyes can lead to permanent damage on the surface of the eye. Therefore, finding an effective solution means seeking out professional care. At Beyond Vision Center we offer comprehensive eye exams and have leading doctors who specialize in dry eye treatment.
At Beyond Vision Center, Dr. Rajadhyksha (Raja) and Dr. Morgan truly go above and beyond when it comes to delivering exceptional eye care. They provide expert dry eye care and fittings for specialty contact lenses, which can significantly benefit those with severe dry eye disease. They are dedicated to patient-centered eye care that is both innovative and practical. They focus on addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of eye conditions like dry eye to provide patients with long-lasting, transformative results.
Before visiting Beyond Vision Center, patient Thomas P. dreaded using eye drops. Thanks to the guidance of Dr. Raja and Dr. Morgan, he's now confident, armed with expert tips, and no longer held back by his eyes.
Specialty contact lenses can be a useful solution for individuals suffering from dry eye. These lenses are designed to provide better moisture retention and improved comfort compared to regular contacts. They can help provide relief for the symptoms of dry eye by maintaining a protective layer of hydration on the eye's surface. Dr. Morgan, who also specializes in dry eye treatment, recommends specialty contacts for patients who struggle with dry eye, as they offer customized fit and advanced materials that enhance eye moisture and comfort. By opting for specialty contact lenses, patients can experience significant relief and an improved quality of life.
Although dry eye is more commonly associated with adults, children can also suffer from this condition. Factors such as prolonged screen time, environmental conditions, and certain health issues can contribute to dry eyes in children.
Regular checkups allow eye care professionals to assess and manage dry eye symptoms early. Dr. Raja explains, "Dry eyes in children can affect their comfort and ability to focus, particularly during school hours. Identifying and treating dry eyes early can help improve their overall well-being and academic performance."
If you find that over-the-counter drops are effective, keep using them, but remember to inform us during your next appointment. This allows us to address any remaining concerns and adjust your contact lens plan accordingly, taking into account the impact of the eye drops. Do not live with discomfort!
Here at Beyond Vision Center, Dr. Raja and Dr. Morgan all agree on the importance of using artificial tears as part of a comprehensive dry eye management plan. Dr. Raja concludes, "By understanding the cause of your dry eyes and choosing the right treatment, you can significantly improve your eye health and overall quality of life."
Got questions or need assistance? Contact us today by sending a text or calling our Carlsbad number at (760) 438-2020 or our Encinitas number at (760) 944-7177. Our dedicated team is here to help you with all your eye care needs. Whether you're scheduling an appointment, seeking information about our services, or simply want to learn more about how we can help you see the world more clearly, we're just a call or click away. Reach out to us now and take the first step toward better vision and eye health!