If you suffer from dry, itchy, and irritated tears, you are most likely familiar with artificial tears. Artificial tears lubricate your eyes and help keep moisture on the surface of your eyes. They come in various forms such as drops, gels, and ointments, and can be purchased over the counter. While these eye drops can provide quick comfort, they aren’t always the best long-term solution. In this blog post, we will explore the potential downsides of relying solely on artificial tears for managing dry eye symptoms.
Temporary relief
One of the main limitations of artificial tears is that they provide only temporary relief. While they can help relieve dryness and discomfort, they do not address the underlying causes of dry eye syndrome. You may need to use artificial tears frequently throughout the day to maintain comfort. For chronic dry eye sufferers, it’s essential to explore more comprehensive treatment options that tackle the root causes.
The danger of preservatives
Some eye drops contain preservatives that can irritate the eyes and cause inflammation. This can lead to a condition known as toxic keratoconjunctivitis, which can make your dry eye symptoms even more severe. It’s important to read the ingredients on your eye drops and choose preservative-free options if possible.
Cost considerations
Artificial tears can be a cost-effective solution for occasional dryness but using them frequently can add up. Preservative-free options are usually more expensive, especially if you struggle with chronic dryness and use eye drops constantly throughout the day. In these cases, it may be worth exploring other treatments that could provide longer-lasting relief and save you money.
Risk of tolerance
Over time, people may develop a tolerance to artificial tears and need to use them more often or switch to another product for the same result. This can lead to frustration and reliance on drops without addressing the underlying issue. Regular check-ups with your eye care provider can help ensure you’re using the most effective strategies for managing your dry eyes.
Masking underlying causes
Using artificial tears long-term can also mask more serious underlying issues with your eyes. Dry eyes can be a symptom of other conditions such as meibomian gland dysfunction or ocular surface disease. By relying solely on artificial tears for relief, you may be missing out on proper diagnosis and treatment for these underlying issues. It’s always best to consult an eye doctor to determine the root cause of your dry eye symptoms.
We’re here to help!
If you’re using artificial tears but still not finding relief, it’s time to talk with us about our dry eye treatment in Avon. Our experienced team can help identify the underlying causes of your dry eye symptoms and recommend effective treatments tailored to your needs.
We offer a range of advanced treatment options to help manage chronic dry eyes, including:
- Celluma LLLT: A low level light therapy that promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
- Forma-I radiofrequency: A treatment that treats dry eye while also tightening up the skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
- OptiLight IPL therapy: A gentle light therapy designed to target inflammation and enhance tear production.
- ZEST: A specialized eyelid treatment that helps clear blockages and improve eyelid function.
- TearCare®: A system that heats and expresses the tear glands in your eyelids to enhance tear quality.
- Scleral lenses: Custom lenses that provide a protective layer over the eye, helping to retain moisture and improve vision.
Schedule an appointment with us today, and let’s work together to find the best solution for your eye health.