Are you suffering from red, irritated and scratchy eyes? Do you feel like you have something stuck in your eyes? These are hallmark symptoms of dry eye syndrome, a condition that occurs when your eyes are not properly lubricated due to insufficient tear production, blocked glands, or unbalanced tear composition.

Seeking the ideal artificial tears to relieve dry eyes can be a daunting process. The eye drops shelf at the drug store offers so many options that it's hard to know which ones are right for you. What's more, some can actually make your symptoms worse.

The 6 Types of Eye Drops / Artificial Tears

Preserved Artificial Tears

Preserved artificial tears contain added preservatives to maintain a very long shelf life. Unfortunately, these preservatives can also cause inflammatory dry eye disease and allergic reactions in those who are sensitive.

Preservative-Free Artificial Tears

Preservative-free artificial tears are great for contact lens wearers as they don't cause any preservative build-up on the lenses. They are also suitable for those with sensitive eyes.

Oil-Based Artificial Tears

These are thicker than traditional eye drops, as they contain an oil-based formulation. The oil helps prevent the watery portion of the tears from evaporating too quickly. Not recommended for contact lens wearers.

Eye Drop Spray or Mist

These sprays are preservative-free and are used to relieve dryness and irritation in both the eyes and eyelids. They're easy to use, especially for those who struggle to insert drops into their eyes.

Artificial Tear Gel

Artificial tear gel adds a thick coating of tears and can be used at any time of the day or night. However, the thicker consistency may blur your vision for several minutes.

Artificial Tear Ointment

Dry eye ointments are thick and coat the front of your eye. They're usually used 1 to 2 times daily as needed. It may be best to use them at bedtime, as it will blur your vision.

Get Dry Eye Relief Today!

Keep in mind that eye drops don't address the root cause of dry eyes; they just provide temporary respite from the uncomfortable dry eye symptoms. Only an eye doctor can examine your eyes to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend the best treatment.

Schedule an appointment with Optique Family Vision Care in Springfield to learn more about dry eye syndrome and to find out which treatment is best for you.