Lubricating Eye Drops
This page will answer your questions before using lubricating eye drops.
What AreLubricating EyeDrops?
Lubricating eye drops are used to moisten the eyes and help maintain the moisture of the exterior surface of the eyes. They are also known as artificial tears, as they provide moisture and comfort for dry eyes, which can result from various causes. Lubricating eye drops can be obtained without a prescription.
What Should You Look for When Buying Lubricating Eye Drops?
You can use lubricating eye drops without a prescription, and there is no specific type that works well for everyone. A person might need to try different types of drops until they find the most suitable and effective one for them.
- There are two types of lubricating eye drops:
- Lubricating eye drops with preservatives: This type comes in multi-dose containers and contains chemical preservatives that inhibit bacterial growth. They might cause irritation for people with moderate to severe dryness.
Preservative-free eye drops: This type is recommended for individuals who need to use drops more than four times a day and who suffer from moderate to severe eye dryness. They come in single-dose containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When should you dispose of eye drops?
- If the expiry date on the drop’s package has passed.
If it’s a single-use drop, it should be disposed of after use.
What are the correct methods for using the drops?
- The correct method for using all types of eye drops:
- Ensure that your hands are clean by washing them to prevent dirt and germs from entering the eye.
- Make sure to remove contact lenses before applying the drop, and do not put them back in the eye for at least 15 minutes after using the drop.
- Tilt your head back, gently pull your lower eyelid down, and look up.
- Hold the drop near your eye, being careful not to touch the tip of the drop’s bottle to the eye.
- Apply the specified number of eye drops.
- Release your eyelid, close your eyes gently, and avoid squeezing them shut.
