When is the best time to use artificial tears for dry eyes?

Artificial tears are a useful tool for treating dry eye symptoms. But along with the product itself, the way in which it is used can be important.

When is the best time to use artificial tears for dry eyes? in Bellflower

What Do Artificial Tears Do?

Generally speaking, artificial tears are designed to take the place of natural tears if your body either doesn’t create enough of them, or if the tear composition is deficient. They do not correct the problem, but can relieve the symptoms for a period of time.

 

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How Often Should Artificial Tears be Used?

Many types of artificial tears contain preservatives, which can lead to eye irritation if used too often. For that reason, most doctors are likely to recommend only using artificial tears with preservatives up to 4 times daily, while those without preservatives can be used as often as needed. However, as with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a doctor before you start using artificial tears or eye drops.

When Should Artificial Tears Be Used?

A big question regarding artificial tears is when to use them. This applies both to when to start using them after you notice symptoms, and at what times it is ideal to use them.

The irritation you experience will only grow if you don’t do anything, or just rub at your eyes. So it is best to use your eye drops when you first start to notice symptoms.

If you expect to be in a particularly dry environment, or somewhere else that you know may aggravate your dry eye, you can use artificial tears beforehand, to provide your eyes with some protection in advance.

Additionally, if you frequently experience dry eye upon waking up in the morning, you can apply artificial tears just before going to bed at night.

When Should Artificial Tears Be Used?

Common Questions

Yes, children can use artificial tears. There can be a lot of discomfort involved with dry eyes. Dryness can cause children's eyes to feel hot or dry. They may also experience a lot of watering in their eyes. The sensation of dry eyes can sometimes mimic the feeling of sand or dirt in the eyes. Using artificial tears at least four times a day can help your child with dry eyes, however this should only be done for a short period of time. If the symptoms do not go away please schedule a dry eye evaluation to get to the bottom of what is causing your child's symptoms. One of the main culprits of dry eye in children is excessive screen time. When a child is looking at a screen they blink less often and less fully, which causes the eyes' natural tear film layer to evaporate more quickly. This in turn can lead to other complications. Using artificial tears without preservatives is usually recommended, especially if using the artificial tears for more than a short period of time.
When is the best time to use artificial tears for dry eyes?
Dr. Ikeda cartoon

Summary

Artificial tears can be a very effective way at treating dry eye symptoms, though they will work better if used as soon as symptoms manifest, and it can also help to use them preventatively if you know something is likely to irritate your eyes. However, especially if you are using artificial tears which contain preservatives, be careful not to overuse them, as it can lead to eye irritation. If you are experiencing dry eye or have any questions, you can contact Amplify EyeCare of Greater Long Beach at (562) 925-6591 to schedule a consultation.

Testimonials


I haven't actually used the optometrist side, so my review is limited to the vision therapy offered.  This office was recommended by my occupational therapist for the treatment of my double vision following a stroke.


Claire A.

Love this location. I had a brain injury accident from day one one. All the team make you feel you still important and hope in the horizon after when the medical system fell you miserably. Dr. Ikeda very professional and very understanding about your issue. Two tombs up.


Jim K.

My husband and I were immediately impressed with Dr Ikeda. I was hit by a car while cycling which caused broken bones and three brain injuries. The brain injuries caused double vision. Dr. Ikeda examined my eyes and got me started on vision therapy with his occupational therapist who specializes in vision therapy.  She (Chris) is absolutely great.  I am impressed with the array of tools used to help recover my binocular vision.  I am doing things I never thought were possible (balance boards etc).  Chris pushes me and keeps me motivated. I really enjoy my sessions with her.  The office staff is always friendly and they have a wonderful appointment reminder tool that makes it easy to keep my calendar up to date. I am happy the rehab center at Little Co. of Mary recommended them!!


Teresa S.

The Vision Therapy is handled in a separate office through a different door from the shared waiting room. Chris, the vision therapist, has a wide and varied assortment of tools, equipment and resources to best evaluate and treat most vision issues. After just a few visits, my double vision became easier to control, using exercises developed during the therapy process. It was time well-spent.


Joe M.

I have been coming here since I can remember. I love it here. The staff is so amazing and nice. They explain everything they gonna do and never make you feel rushed. Dr. Ikeda has always been my doctor and I would never want another one. He is the doctor for my whole family and is always asking how everyone is doing. I am also so crazy about picking out my frames and have to try so many and each person who helps me take the time and lets me try them all on. I would never want to go anywhere else! I definitely would recommend this office to anyone looking for a great eye doctor.


Kayla W.

This is not for the eye exam but for the frames selection portion. I brought my prescription from Kaiser here with my VSP insurance. The reception staff was very polite and professional.  Manny helped me to pick out frames and explain my coverage.  Very helpful and patient not like the individual at the other place I rated here on Yelp.  I was running late and he still helped me and was not bothered at all.  I am so glad I came here ..........very pleased.

Very professional staff and pleasant.


Daniel G.
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