Myth: Artificial Tears are not a viable dry eye therapy
Artificial tears are arguably the main therapy used by both doctors and patients when treating dry eye disease. But are they actually treating this condition, or are they merely masking symptoms? This is a huge debate in the eye care space, and it's one we'd like to clear up.
These lubricating drops come in many forms. From bottles of gels and drops to preservative free vials, there are so many choices. But when you find one that works for you (and hopefully it's one that is preservative free!) we recommend you stick with it. Why?
Artificial tears can be very beneficial in Level 1 of dry eye. The Dry Eye WorkShop (DEWS II) defines Level 1 as the mildest form of dry eye, characterized by episodic, but not constant, blurred vision and discomfort. Those in Level 1 may have mild redness of their eyes and eyelids, mild corneal and conjunctival inflammation, and mild meibomian gland issues. They may or may not have an abnormal Tear Breakup Time (TBUT) or Schirmer Score. If this sounds like you, artificial tears can actually help treat your problem.
They not only help to mask the symptoms of this disease (the burning, foreign body sensation, and general irritation), but they actually do help heal corneal inflammation (corneal staining) when used together with other dry eye therapies.Â
Now, does this mean that artificial tears are not beneficial for those in Levels 2, 3, or 4? Not necessaily. Nonpreserved artificial tears are still beneficial for symptom relief and they may still help the cornea heal to a mild extent when combined with other therapies. The main point is, if they're giving you relief, you should stick with them and continue using the one that is working for you. That being said, you should also continue with warm compresses, proper eyelid hygiene, hydration, and diet changes to keep inflammation under control. You can
check out all of the products from Heyedrate here.