If you’ve ever ventured to the drug store after experiencing irritated eyes, you know there is a maze of eye care products available. Shopping for eye drops isn’t as simple as it appears. Choosing the wrong drops can cause more problems than it solves.
There are different types of OTC eye drops that treat different issues. Are you experiencing dry eyes, or are the issues related to seasonal allergies? Or do you need eye drops to correct Presbyopia?
We’ve put together simple eye care tips to help you avoid choosing the wrong drops. Keep reading for five things to consider when shopping for eye drops.
- Consistency in Eye Drop Solutions
Eye care products come in different forms. You can get them in gels, ointments, and eye drop solutions. If you work or are outside the home during the day, eye drops are more convenient.
Using eye drops when you’re on the go and in public spaces is quicker and has little to no clean-up. The biggest downfall to using eye drops is the products can become habit-forming.
Click for more information on aceclidine-based eye drops to correct Presbyopia.
- Using Gels and Ointments
To hydrate the eyes, gels and ointments are the better choices. You may have to deal with a slight smell, and you need to be more cautious when applying the products.
Plus, these products are more visible than eye drop solutions.
- Does It Contain Preservatives
When buying OTC eye drops, you must read the label and understand what is in the product you’re purchasing. Most products we purchase have some form of preservatives in them. Preservatives are used to prolong the life of products.
People with underlying health issues should research products or ask the pharmacist about potential reactions to prevent eyesight problems. If you have allergies or other medical conditions, you want to avoid putting something in your eyes that will worsen the problem.
In addition to checking for preservatives, always look for the expiration date.
- Does the Eye Drops Treat “Red Eye”?
Most people will experience symptoms that lead to red-eye at some point and time. This is irritation of the eyes described by redness dryness in the eye. The main ingredient in eye drops is vasoconstrictors.
Vasoconstrictors shrink blood vessels on the eye’s surface and clear up the redness. Overuse of these types of drops can lead to other problems.
If you have constant redness in the eyes, it could be more serious. See an optometrist and rule out common eye diseases.
- Use Prescribed Eye Drops
Since it’s always best to consult with an optometrist before buying OTC eye drops, why not have the doctor prescribe the drops. This way, you know you’re using the right eye drops to treat the cause of your irritation.
Show Your Eyes Some TLC
Before going to the store, understand the exact issue you’re experiencing to prevent eyesight problems. Only use eye drops that treat your specific issue.
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