Buying guide for Best eye drops for red eyes
Coughing, sneezing, sniffling, nasal congestion, and red eyes are all symptomatic of the body’s reaction to allergens. You may be allergic to dogs, cats, perfumes, dust mites, or seasonal pollen. Whatever the cause, you are miserable.
Allergic reactions happen in the eyes with the body reacts to an intrusive substance and the immune system kicks in, releasing histamine or other substances. This reaction causes red, itching, burning, and watery eyes. People prone to eye allergies may also have nasal allergies.
Red, watery eyes are a common problem, but that doesn’t make them any easier to cope with. Fortunately for the millions of people who suffer from this problem, over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops are available to relieve the redness and soothe the eyes. With the right eye drops in your medicine cabinet, you can reach for them with confidence, knowing that your eyes will not only feel better, they’ll also appear younger, brighter, whiter, and naturally radiant.
Key considerations
Chronic dry eye syndrome
If your scratchy, red eyes are due to chronic dry eye syndrome unrelated to infection or injury, several things could be to blame, including:
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Aging
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Prescription medication reaction
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Prolonged use of a laptop, computer or another electronic device
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Gender
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Contact lenses
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Changes in hormones
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Antihistamines
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Low humidity
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Exposure to wind and cold
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Overexposure to the sun
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Reading
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Inflammation
Artificial tears lubricate the surface of the eye. For people experiencing chronic dry eye syndrome, artificial tears are the first line of defense. They offer immediate symptomatic relief of itching but do little to relieve redness.
Types of allergies
Two types of allergies cause eyes to become itchy, irritated, and red: perennial allergies that happen year-round and seasonal allergies. The major causes of perennial allergies include pet dander, dust and dust mites, air pollution, feathers in bedding, smoke, perfume, cosmetics, and certain medications.
Seasonal allergies, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, happen during specific times of the year when weeds, grasses, flowers, trees, and mold release spores and pollen. Red, burning, or itchy eyes caused by seasonal allergies can be effectively treated by OTC eye drops with decongestants and antihistamines.
Other causes of red eyes
Your eye issue may be due to a bacterial infection requiring prescription antibacterial eye drops. Inflammation of the eye surface is the primary factor causing dry, red eyes: inflammation activates from stress, bacteria, air pollutants, or a surface irritation to the eye. Chronic red, itching eyes can be a significant source of anxiety, affecting your day-to-day quality of life. Persons suffering from recurring swollen, tender, or painful eyes should visit an eye doctor for diagnosis and guidance.
Cautions and concerns
Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if it is safe to use OTC eye drops if you take other medications or have other medical conditions. This is especially true for people who suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, glaucoma, thyroid disorder, eye infection, or eye injury.
We make note of the allergens that may result in red eyes. Eye drops that are formulated to treat reactions from dust, pollen, pets, chemicals and more may reduce redness when applied as directed.
In our research of eye drops, we alert consumers of various health conditions or injuries that require medical attention before using over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. We recommend consulting with a healthcare provider before administering eye drops for red eyes when these issues are present.
Chronic dry eye syndrome often results in eye irritation and redness that respond to lubricating drops. This is a consideration included in our assessments.
When we explore the different eye drops for red eyes on the market, we look at the packaging. We note the bottle size and material, which is typically plastic or glass.
The application process is an important factor of any eye drop bottle. While most plastic bottles typically require squeezing to apply the drops, some larger bottles and those constructed of glass may include a dropper.
Quality eye drops are FDA approved. These are the types of drops we recommend to our readers as they shop for OTC treatments for red eyes and irritation.
Depending on the formula, eye drops for red eyes may only be intended for use for a limited time. We consider this when we conduct our research, and advise our readers to follow the instructions on the packaging of the drops they choose.
Because safety is vital when putting any products in the eyes, we advise consumers of precautions for using eye drops. We also recommend seeking the advice of a doctor when there are questions about appropriate use.
Multi-packs of eye drops are available from some brands. In our list of favorites, we let shoppers know when more than one bottle is available for the price.
Some eye drops for red eyes deliver a lubricating or soothing effect, while others simply reduce redness. We consider the symptoms eye drops relieve when we do our research.
Features
Symptom relief
When shopping for eye care products to relieve redness, read the advertisement and label to determine that the product actually is formulated to remove redness. Some eye drops are for lubrication only. (Eye drops formulated for dry eyes help support and restore your eye’s lipid layer by replenishing moisture to your eyes.) Some eye drops are formulated to get the redness out but are not designed to alleviate dryness. And finally, some eye drops do both.
Duration
Read the directions carefully. Some eye drops are to be cautiously used for limited periods, while others can be used for an unlimited duration of time. In fact, drops formulated for red eyes may stop working or make the problem worse with prolonged use. The manufacturer should explain this thoroughly in the packaging. If you have any doubts about how long you should use a particular product in your eyes, consult your physician.
Bottle size
OTC eye drops for redness relief are sold in 0.25 ml, 0.05 ml, 0.75 ml, and 0.80 ml plastic squeeze bottles or glass containers. Eye drops packaged in 0.80 ml or larger bottles usually include an eye dropper.
FDA approval
When purchasing OTC eye drops to lubricate or soothe red, irritated eyes, look for a product with FDA approval. Reputable manufacturers package their product with a complete list of ingredients and clear usage instructions. An eye dropper is often included for ease of application. Avoid products from manufacturers who deliberately provide eye droppers that are too large, resulting in wasted money and wasted medication.
Eye drops for red eyes: prices
The cost of eye drops covers a broad spectrum.
Inexpensive
OTC eye drops in the lower price range cost $2 to $4 for a 0.25 ml container.
Mid-range
For the same size in the medium price range, expect to pay $5 to $8.
Expensive
Name-brand eye drops in the high price range cost upward of $18 for a 0.25 ml size. Several brands offer additional savings on two-pack or three-pack packaging.
Tips
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If your eyes appear swollen, red, and itchy and your eyelids itch as well, especially at the base of your lashes, you may be dealing with a condition called ocular pruritus. Left untreated, this common condition can lead to unfavorable outcomes, such as scarring. See an eye doctor if you think you may have ocular pruritus.
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To avoid contacting a bacterial eye infection, wash your hands frequently. Eyes can become infected from contact with an unclean substance or object, such as dirty hands, cosmetics, an improperly cleaned contact lens, face lotion, or the tip of an unsterile eye-dropper.
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When using eye drops, avoid touching the eye drop container tip to your eye or any other surface. Contact lens users should remove their lenses before applying eye drops.
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Certain ingredients should be avoided in eye drops, such as dyes and bleaches. Vasoconstrictors may be present in some OTC eye drops, as well. You should avoid eye drops that use a vasoconstrictor unless under the advice of a physician.
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As with any medication, use OTC eye drops as suggested by your healthcare provider. Read the packaging instructions, and follow the directions closely.
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Discard the product if the solution changes color.
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Do not use the solution if it is cloudy or shows evidence of contamination.
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Securely fasten the cap of the eye drop container after use.
FAQ
Q. If I experience red eyes, do I need to visit an eye doctor?
A. In many cases, eye redness is indicative of irritation or eye strain; it’s an annoying cosmetic and comfort concern that does not require professional intervention. However, red eye can be a sign of a serious problem if accompanied by blurred vision or intense eye pain. Stop using OTC eye drops if eye pain or irritation worsens or if vision changes occur. If ever in doubt, it’s wise to visit your physician for a professional opinion.
Q. If I have eye redness, irritation, or an eye infection, how do I avoid infecting family and friends?
A. As with any medication, follow package instructions and avoid sharing your eye drops with others. Wash your hands frequently, and try to avoid rubbing your eyes.
Q. Is it safe to use OTC eye drops on family pets with irritated eyes?
A. Some OTC eye drops are safe for animal use, but it is wise to ask your veterinarian’s advice first.
