Dry is an eye infection that can be very uncomfortable. It can affect patients from any age group. However, individuals over the age of 50 have a higher chance of getting impacted by the condition.

Dry eyes happen when the glands do not produce enough tears to keep the eyes lubricated, or the tears do not work properly. The tears may evaporate quickly or could be unable to provide the necessary moisture to your eyes. The situation can cause grittiness, blurry vision, and discomfort.

Dry eyes could be caused due to multiple reasons. However, the most common cause of dry eyes is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). However, there could be other possible causes of the eye infection.

Dry eyes are a severe concern and need immediate attention. There are multiple treatment options for dry eyes. Let us discuss them in detail.

Treatment for dry eyes

The treatment alternative for dry eyes depends on its underlying cause. Hence, you need to consult with your doctor, who will assess the reason for the infection and treat it accordingly.

Some popular treatment options used for dry eyes are:

1. Artificial tears

Artificial tears are the Best OTC for Dry Eyes and are available as eye drops. They are widely used to ease symptoms of mild dry eyes. They can help in keeping your eyes moist. However, you need to apply them three to four times a day.

Preservative-based eye drops have a longer shelf life than non-preservative drops. Non-preservative drops come in a disposable vial that is used once and thrown away.

Since artificial tears need to be used several times a day, it is better to stay away from preservative-based eye drops, as they can cause side effects.

You can also opt for eye ointments that provide the eyes with the required moisture. They have a thick consistency, making them the best OTC for dry eyes. The ideal time to use eye ointments is before bedtime, as it can cause blurry vision.

2. Eye inserts

For patients with moderate to severe dry eye symptoms, artificial tears may not work. A better alternative is to use tiny eye inserts that look like a clear grain of rice.

Eye inserts are placed once a day between the lower eyelid and the eyeball. The inserts dissolve slowly and release a medication that keeps your eyes lubricated throughout the day.

3. Medication to reduce inflammation

When your eyelids are inflamed, it can prevent the glands from realizing oil into your eyes. The oil prevents the tears from evaporating. In their absence, the tears evaporate quickly, leading to dry eyes.

Your doctor may prescribe an anti-inflammatory antibiotic medication to reduce swelling. These medications are available as oral pills as well as eyedrops. The eyedrops can suppress the immune system to prevent the body from attacking itself.

Some antibiotic medication also stimulates oil glands to produce more oils to reduce dryness. The antibiotic medications for dry eyes are available only on a prescription basis.

4. Warm compresses

A warm compress is a traditional home remedy for dry eyes, which is extremely popular. All you need to do is use a clean cloth soaked in warm water and place it over your eyelids. It delivers heat to the eyelids and helps in unclogging the blocked glands.

Wet warm compresses also provide moisture to the dry eyes. They can be used along with other treatment alternatives to provide comfort to your eyes.

These are some of the commonly used treatment alternatives for dry eyes. If you have mild dry eyes, you need to search for Best OTC for Dry Eyes.

However, if the condition is severe, consult a doctor and start your prescription medication. In some rare cases, the cause of dry eyes could be loose eyelids. Your doctor may perform surgery to remedy the situation.