Welcome Back.
This post is part II. Here I will discuss different types of dry-eye eye drops. If you haven’t read my previous post, be sure to have a read here.
Most dry-eye eye drops are available over the counter in the supermarkets and at the chemists. The range is full on and it can be quiet confusing.
You might notice that there are 3 main types of eyedrops:
- Antihistamines or allergy eye drops
- Red Eye eye drops: They may contain antihistamines but generally consist of vasoconstrictors (Shrink up the blood vessels so your eye appears less red)
- Lubricating or moisturising eye drops: These come in 2 main forms: normal liquid and the more viscous gel.
As you might have guessed we are after the third type.
But how do you know if that’s what you need?
First, Distinguish between an allergy, red eye and dry eyes.
While the symptoms are common, an allergy is more characterised by itchiness, possibly stinging rather than sandy gritty sensation experienced in dry eyes. Dry eyes tend to be more chronic, while an allergy can be triggered by recent exposal to wind, dust, gardening, petting animals or hayfever season.
Red eye can be caused by a number of reason mainly fatigue, lack of sleep, dry eyes and allergies. Can also be caused by other eye conditions such as infections, trauma and many more.
Finally, make sure to rule out any infections before commencing on any eye drops.
Orthoptist Social 