People often turn to eye drops as a solution for dry eyes, red eyes or allergies. However, you can purchase eyes drops that contain a variety of medicinal ingredients. Here’s a list of eye drops and some information about different kinds of eyes drops and which ones may be best for you.
Drops for dry eyes
Drops for red eyes
Drops for allergies
Drops for contact lenses
Drops for special conditions
Drops for dry eyes If you have temporary dry eyes due to extended computer use, windy weather or being overly tired, you should use lubricating eye drops. Also called artificial tears, lubricating eye drops keep the surface of your eyes moist. Most brands contain ingredients that are already found in your natural tears. If you have severe dry eyes symptoms, you may need a lubricating gel or ointment. Your eye doctor may also recommend a prescription-strength eye drop. Drops for red eyes Some over-the-counter eye drops can reduce eye redness. They’re called decongestant drops and contain chemicals that constrict the blood vessels in the white part of your eye, causing them to appear less red. However, you must be careful when using decongestant drops. They can cause side effects such as dry eyes, irritation and dilated pupils if you use them too much. They can also cause your eyes to get redder when you stop using them. Consult with your optometrist before using these medications. Drops for allergies Some drops contain antihistamines which are effective at treating allergy symptoms. These drops can reduce itching, soreness, redness, watering and swelling. Drops for contact lenses If you wear contact lenses, eye drops are a must. However, you can’t use many of the products mentioned above while wearing contact lenses. Rewetting drops are specially formulated to provide relief for contact lens wearers. Your optometrist can help you choose the best rewetting eye drop for your lenses. Drops for special conditions Some eye conditions such as pink eye require medicated eye drops for treatment. Depending on the type of pink eye you have, you may need antibiotic eye drops. However, some eye infections are viral. Therefore, antibiotic drops won’t help. However, you can use over-the-counter drops to ease your symptoms. Your eye doctor will give you a proper diagnosis. Eye doctors in Edmonton and the surrounding area At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., our opticians can diagnose your optical conditions and recommend the best solutions. We provide a complete line of eyeglasses, contact lenses, eye drops and other eye care products. Contact us today to schedule an eye exam with an optometrist at one of our five locations in and around Edmonton.