Have you ever felt a burning or heavy sensation in your eyes after a long day at the computer? Eye drops are often the most effective solution for dry eyes, but not all drops are suitable for every situation. In this article, you’ll learn when and which drops to choose to relieve discomfort and maintain eye health.

Why do eyes get dry?

Dryness can occur for various reasons:

• Computer work or long reading sessions reduce blinking, drying out the eye surface.
• Air conditioning, central heating, or conditioned rooms lower humidity in the air.
• Contact lens wear or surgical corrections (e.g., laser surgery) can reduce the stability of the natural tear film.
• Age and hormonal changes, such as menopause, also affect tear quality.

My experience

In my practice, I’ve seen how quickly vision and daily comfort can deteriorate if suitable eye drops aren’t used in time. For example, my client Ilze works in a very dry office environment—without daily drops, her eyes became red and burning after just 1.5 hours.

Which eye drops to choose?

1. Preservative-free or with preservatives?

• Preservative-free – recommended for frequent use (more than 4–6 times a day) because they don’t cause irritation or allergies.
• With preservatives – suitable for less frequent use (1–2 times a day); usually cheaper, but prolonged use may cause irritation.

2. Gel drops vs. liquid drops

• Gel drops (thicker, more viscous) stay longer on the eye surface, ideal for relieving severe dryness at night or in theaters.
• Liquid drops (watery) spread easily and are good for daytime use, providing quick, light relief.

3. Special drops for contact lens wearers

If you wear lenses, look for drops labeled “for contact lens wearers.” They contain fewer ingredients that might blur the lens surface and provide comfort until the lenses are removed.

Tip: Keep a small, portable bottle in your pocket if you work in climate-controlled offices or travel frequently.

When to use drops?

Daily prevention

• Use lighter drops 1–2 times a day to maintain tear film stability.
• Especially during challenging seasons (winter heating or summer air-conditioned environments).

Acute relief

• After long periods at the computer, reading, or watching movies/theater.
• Before bedtime, if your eyes feel burning in the evenings, use gel drops with hyaluronic acid or carbomer.

How to choose the right option

1. Check the ingredients: Look for hyaluronic acid, carbomer, or glycerin—they help retain moisture longer.
2. Test a small amount first: Try one drop in each eye and observe for irritation.
3. Consult a specialist if symptoms do not improve within a week.

Industry recommendation: According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, regular use of artificial tear drops is the first step in managing dry eye syndrome.

Conclusion

Eye drops for dry eyes can be your reliable ally for daily comfort if you choose the right type and follow the proper usage routine. Don’t let dryness interfere with your activities—start with a simple once-daily application and monitor the improvement!

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Healthy eyes start with proper care!