Artificial Tears for Dry Eyes
Chicago, Illinois Ophthalmologist
If you have dry eyes, Chicago Ophthalmologist Dr. Golden can help you treat your condition with artificial tears. The scratchy, sore, stinging sensation of dry eyes is caused when your tear glands are unable to produce enough moisture to keep your corneas well lubricated. Artificial tears restore the moisture balance in your eyes, providing you with relief from your symptoms
Types of Artificial Tears
In addition to providing moisture and lubrication, some types of artificial tears contain electrolytes (e.g. bicarbonate and potassium). These additives can promote healing on the surface of your eyes. Some artificial tears may also contain thickening agents to help the solution stay on the surface of your eyes for a longer period of time.
There are two main types of artificial tears:
- With preservatives – These artificial tears contain chemicals that help discourage the growth of bacteria once the container has been opened. However, if you have moderate to severe dry eyes, the preservatives may irritate your eyes.
- Without preservatives – If you need to apply artificial tears more than four times a day, preservative-free eye drops are generally recommended, since they contain fewer additives. These artificial tears usually come in single-dose vials.
Gels and ointments can also provide relief from dry eyes. However, because these treatments blur your vision, they are best used just before bedtime. If the use of artificial tears and ointments is inadequate, a prescription eye drop like Retasis may be the answer.
Choosing the Right Artificial Tears
Remember that eye drops like Murine and Visine, which promise to eliminate the redness in your eyes, are not the same thing as artificial tears. These drops constrict the small blood vessels in your eyes to make them appear less red. Artificial tears serve a completely different purpose, supplementing the moisture in your eyes to relieve symptoms like burning and irritation. Be sure to consult with an experienced ophthalmologist like Dr. Golden before purchasing any over-the-counter treatments.
No single type of artificial tears is right for every dry-eye patient. After carefully assessing your condition, Ophthalmologist Dr. Golden will recommend the treatment that best meets your needs.
If you have dry eyes and are looking for an effective treatment solution, please contact Doctors For Visual Freedom today to schedule an initial consultation with our experienced Chicago dry eyes specialist Dr. Mark Golden. We serve patients throughout the Chicagoland area.
Two Locations:
Doctors for Visual Freedom Laser Center
875 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1550
Chicago, IL 60611 | Doctors for Visual Freedom Laser Center
2010 S Arlington Heights Rd, Suite 121
Arlington Heights, IL 60005 |
