Dry eye treatment
Eye drops:
Artificial tears, or nonprescription eye drops, are the most common treatment for mild dry eye. You can also try prescription eye drops, such as cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra).
Gels and ointments:
Over-the-counter moisturizing gels and ointments can help relieve dry eyes.
Lifestyle changes:
Avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning, and use a humidifier in your home. You can also try to limit screen time and take breaks from staring at screens.
Scleral lenses:
These special contact lenses trap moisture onto the eye’s surface.
Tear duct plugs:
These plugs can be inserted into the tear ducts to prevent excessive loss of tears.
In-office therapies:
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy can reduce ocular inflammation and bacterial colonies that result in dry eyes.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements:
Some research suggests that these supplements may support tear production.
