Dry eyes are a recurring problem that can lead to eye discomfort and injury. Artificial tears is a treatment without side effects that is intended to keep the eyes moist.
Among the different types available on the market, most ophthalmologists recommend those with hyaluronic acid and in single-dose format because they are more sterile and easier to apply and store. They also recommend preservative-free artificial tears, as they can cause adverse reactions in the patient.
Physiological saline solution, on the other hand, is a saline solution applied to clean the eye. Specialists do not recommend it as a substitute for artificial tears, although it is a harmless substance. We can find various formats, from large volume bottles to single-dose bottles, although specialists recommend the single-dose format.
In which cases can it be applied?
There is a wide range of possibilities and circumstances in which artificial tears can be used. Among them, the following stand out:
- Dry eyes or ocular dryness.
- After eye surgery, such as cataracts and presbyopia.
- Environmental conditions where the climate is very dry or cold.
- People who spend many hours in front of screens (computer, tablet, cell phone, etc.).
In addition to preventing eye dryness and promoting eye hydration, artificial tears also serve to cleanse the eye and relieve discomfort caused by allergies and conjunctivitis.
Treating dry eyes
Before starting to use any of the treatments mentioned above, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmologist for a check-up and to rule out possible pathologies or visual problems.
The treatment must be adjusted to the patient’s needs and it is essential that the patient follows the specialist’s recommendations and visits the ophthalmologist regularly. In this way, they will be able to detect side effects and prevent the problem from developing into a major anomaly.