Dealing with dry eyes can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Whether it’s due to environmental factors, allergies, or underlying health conditions, finding relief is essential. One common solution for dry eyes is using eye drops. But how long does it take for these eye drops to start working? Learn how long it takes for eye drops to provide relief and when you should see an eye care professional for further treatment.
Type of eye drops
Artificial tears
The most common type of eye drops is artificial tears. These eye drops are available over the counter and provide immediate relief by adding moisture to the surface of your eyes. You’ll typically feel relief within minutes. However, the effect might be temporary, especially if your eyes are very dry. You may need to use them multiple times throughout the day for continuous relief.
While over-the-counter eye drops can relieve dry eyes, they may not address the underlying cause of your symptoms. If you have been using eye drops regularly and have not seen any improvement in your condition, you may need more advanced treatment. Your eye doctor can perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the root cause of your dry eyes and recommend a more effective treatment plan.
Prescription eye drops
Prescription eye drops may take longer to work as they address the root causes of dry eye. For example, anti-inflammatory drops can take several days to a few weeks to reduce inflammation and improve tear production. This is because these medications need time to build up in your system and produce their intended effects. It’s important not to get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results—patience is key when using prescription eye drops for long-term management of dry eyes.
Lubricating gel drops
These drops provide longer-lasting relief, often lasting several hours. The relief can be felt almost immediately, but the thickness of the gel can cause temporary blurry vision, which is why many people use them at night.
Tips for using eye drops effectively
- Follow instructions: Always use eye drops as directed by your eye care provider or the instructions on the packaging.
- Keep it clean: Wash your hands before applying eye drops to keep bacteria out of your eyes.
- Proper application: Tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid, and place a drop in the pocket between your eye and eyelid. Close your eyes for a few moments to let the drop spread evenly.
- Avoid overuse: Using eye drops too often can sometimes make dry eye symptoms worse. Stick to the recommended dosage.
When to see a professional
If you have been using over-the-counter eye drops for an extended period without experiencing significant improvement in your dry eye symptoms, it may be time to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor. At Northwest Hills Eye Care, our dry eye specialists in Austin can help determine the underlying cause of your dry eyes and recommend the most effective treatment options, including prescription eye drops and other therapies.
Finding the right solution for dry eye relief can make a big difference in your comfort and quality of life. If you’re having trouble with dry eyes, reach out to us at Northwest Hills Eye Care. We’re here to help you find the best treatment plan for your needs.
