Dry eyes can be frustrating, whether you’re working, reading, or trying to focus throughout the day. Eye drops are a common solution, but how long do they take to work? And how do you know which type is right for you?
Not all eye drops work the same way, and the time it takes to feel relief can vary based on the severity of your symptoms and the type of drops you’re using. Understanding the different options, from over-the-counter lubricating drops to prescription treatments for chronic dry eye, can help you select the most appropriate one. Let’s take a closer look at how these drops work and what you can expect in terms of relief.
Over-the-counter eye drops: Quick relief for mild symptoms
Over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops, also known as artificial tears, are the most common solution for mild cases of dry eye. These drops are widely available without a prescription and are designed to temporarily soothe and moisturize your eyes. They mimic your natural tears to provide instant relief from dryness, irritation, and the gritty feeling often associated with dry eyes.
How quickly do they work?
Most OTC lubricating drops provide relief within 5–10 minutes of application. They coat the surface of your eyes, alleviating irritation and dryness. However, the effects of OTC drops are usually short-term. Depending on environmental conditions and the underlying cause of your dry eyes, the relief may last anywhere from a couple of hours to the rest of the day. In more severe cases, you may need to reapply the drops throughout the day.
When should you use them?
These drops can help relieve mild or occasional dry eye symptoms caused by factors such as wind, prolonged screen time, or air conditioning. If your eyes consistently feel dry despite using artificial tears, or if your symptoms seem to be worsening, you may need to consult your eye doctor. Persistent dryness could indicate chronic dry eye, which could require prescription treatment.
Prescription eye drops: Long-term solutions for chronic dry eye
If you have moderate or severe dry eye, OTC drops may not be enough to address the root cause of the condition. In these cases, prescription eye drops can provide a more effective solution by targeting the underlying issues, such as inflammation or insufficient tear production.
Prescription drops work differently from artificial tears. They help reduce inflammation in the tear glands and promote your body’s natural ability to produce tears over time. They are better suited to long-term management of chronic dry eye because they offer sustainable relief.
How quickly do they work?
Prescription eye drops take longer to start working than OTC drops. Typically, patients begin to feel relief after 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use, but for some, it can take up to 3 months to experience the full benefits.
These drops don’t provide instant relief but help manage the root cause of chronic dry eye. Though the process is slower, the results can be much more durable and effective for managing chronic dry eye symptoms in the long term.
When should you use them?
Prescription eye drops are generally recommended for individuals with chronic dry eye who don’t respond well to over-the-counter solutions. If your dry eye is linked to underlying issues such as inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or meibomian gland dysfunction, prescription treatments are often the most effective way to manage the condition. Your eye doctor will evaluate your symptoms and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
In addition to prescription eye drops, your optometrist may suggest other treatments or lifestyle changes to further improve your symptoms. This could include using warm compresses, taking breaks from screens, or adjusting your environment to reduce exposure to dry air.
Visit Lifetime Eyecare for dry eye care
If dry eyes are disrupting your day or you’re unsure which eye drops are best for you, our experienced eye doctors in Newton can help. In addition to offering personalized eye drop recommendations, we provide advanced dry eye treatment such as IPL therapy and low level light therapy to target dry eye at its source. We’ll assess your symptoms, determine the cause, and create a treatment plan that brings lasting relief. Schedule an appointment today and let us help you find the right solution for your dry eyes.
