If your eyes feel dry, scratchy, or irritated after long hours on screens, you may be experiencing dry eye. An estimated 20 million people in the United States—and 344 million worldwide—suffer from dry eye disease (DED), and that number is growing among both young and older adults.¹
At Southern Eye Centers, our skilled team provides personalized dry eye treatment in Plaquemine and Baton Rouge to help your eyes feel comfortable and improve your quality of life. In this blog, we’ll share tips for relieving mild dryness, choosing the right eye drops, and when to seek professional care.
Choosing the right dry eye drops
Different types of dry eye drops address different needs. Some provide fast, temporary relief, while others treat the underlying causes, like inflammation or excessive tear evaporation. They can also vary in thickness and whether they contain preservatives.
The best option depends on your symptoms, how often you use them, and the sensitivity of your eyes. Popular options include:
- Artificial tears: Over-the-counter dry eye drops that add moisture and soothe mild dryness. Preservative-free versions are gentle enough for frequent use.
- Lubricating gels and ointments: Thicker formulas that keep your eyes hydrated longer, especially while you sleep.
- Prescription drops: Help reduce inflammation and increase tear production for more severe cases of dry eye.
- Eye drops for contact lenses: Designed to keep lenses comfortable and prevent them from drying out during the day.
Our eye doctors in Plaquemine and Baton Rouge can help you determine which drops—or combination of strategies—will best relieve your symptoms and protect your eyes.
Features to look for in artificial tears
If you have a mild case of dry eye, artificial tears may be enough to keep your eyes feeling comfortable throughout the day. When choosing a product, consider what will work best for your eyes and lifestyle:
- Preservative-free formulas: Gentle on sensitive eyes and safe for frequent use
- Added electrolytes or lipids: Help strengthen your natural tear film and prevent moisture from evaporating too quickly
- Thicker or gel formulas: Provide longer-lasting relief, especially helpful at night
- Contact lens compatibility: Make sure your drops are safe to use with your contact lenses
Advanced treatment for chronic dry eye
Sometimes over-the-counter eye drops aren’t enough, particularly if an underlying condition is causing dryness. Environmental factors like air conditioning, heating, and extended screen time can also worsen your symptoms. Our team may recommend:
OptiLight IPL therapy
OptiLight IPL therapy is an advanced light-based treatment that targets the root causes of chronic dry eye. It reduces eyelid inflammation and improves the function of your meibomian glands, which produce the oils that keep tears from evaporating too quickly.
MiBo Thermoflo
MiBo Thermoflo gently heats and massages the eyelids to unclog blocked meibomian glands, improving oil flow and tear quality. Many patients notice reduced dryness, less irritation, and longer-lasting comfort throughout the day.
LidPro
LidPro is an in-office device designed to provide deep cleaning and rejuvenation for the eyelids. It helps remove debris and buildup, reduce inflammation, and restore healthy gland function, supporting better tear production and overall eye comfort.
Lifestyle adjustments
Staying hydrated, taking screen breaks, or using a humidifier can further improve comfort.
A change in contact lenses
Sometimes switching to a different type or brand of lenses can improve comfort. A contact lens exam ensures the best fit, and for sensitive or dry eyes, scleral lenses can provide all-day moisture and relief.
See clearly and feel comfortable
Living with dry, irritated eyes doesn’t have to slow you down. With the right treatments, proper lens care, and guidance from our eye doctors, your eyes can feel comfortable, hydrated, and ready for whatever your day brings.
Schedule a visit today at Southern Eye Centers in Plaquemine or Baton Rouge and start experiencing lasting relief.
References:
