Eye drops can provide comfort to your eyes and maybe a part of your eye care regimen. But, you may have wondered if you are harming your eyes by using them. Eye drops, overall, are not harmful, but you should be informed when you use them. Listed below are some reasons why people use eye drops, signs you use them too much, and the eye problems they can cover up.

Reasons People Use Eye Drops

Many people suffer from dry or irritated eyes from time to time. You may use them to get relief from allergies or to reduce red and extremely dry eyes. However, other people need them for medical purposes. Eye drops are mostly for short-term use. The chemicals they contain can be harmful in large amounts or when used over time.

Types of Eye Drops

Eye drops come in over-the-counter and prescription forms. Here is more information about each.

Over-the-Counter

Over-the-counter eye drops provide general relief for common minor eye issues. You can get these eye drops almost anywhere over-the-counter medications are sold. You don't need a prescription, though your doctor may suggest them for minor eye issues.

Prescription

Doctors prescribe eye drops for more complicated eye issues. Patients with glaucoma and eye muscle movement issues often benefit from special eye drops. You can use them long-term under a doctor's supervision.

Signs of Eye Drop Overuse

In some cases, prolonged eye drop use can make the original problem worse. They often cause rebound effects similar to that with nasals sprays. You may notice you need the drops more often, or your eyes seem redder and drier more often. If you find yourself relying on them more than the directions recommend, you likely have overused them. Talk to your doctor if your situation gets so bad you can't stop without serious eye problems.

Problems Eye Drops Cover Up

Eye drop overuse could cover up eye health problems like pink eye or a serious bacterial or fungal infection. You could also have tear duct issues or draining problems. If you take them for allergies, then you could have a more severe allergy than you realize. You may need more effective treatment to reduce your allergic reactions.

In general, using eye drops occasionally won't have much effect on your eyes. Used correctly, they provide comfort and relief for many eye-related issues. However, if you find yourself relying on them or using them long-term, you may have a problem. Talk to your doctor or eye care professional about prolonged eye drop use. The doctor may find a way to solve your eye problems and reduce your reliance on them.

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