Hi!

[berrr]

I've had dry eyes for years and finally got around to doing something about it other than red eye drops.

Right now I am using Refresh Liquigel x 2 daily and it doesn't do a whole lot.

It's mostly a visual issue as I don't feel any itchiness or irritation. Is it possible to achieve clear white eyes again without the use of addictive red eye drops? If I need to use red eye drops for a quick fix could you suggest a safe brand?

Thank you

[Rebecca Petris]

Hello and welcome!

I've had dry eyes for years and finally got around to doing something about it other than red eye drops.

I hope this means you've quit the red eye drops?

Have you been to a doctor? If not you really should go get your eyes checked out, especially since this is affecting your vision. Try a corneal specialist ophthalmologist or an optometrist who spends a lot of time on dry eye. They will be able to give you some really good guidance on what types of drops are OK and what not, and what else you can do to improve things.

Is it possible to achieve clear white eyes again without the use of addictive red eye drops?

It is impossible to achieve clear white eyes again (other than briefly) WITH the use of red eye drops! Vasoconstrictors have a rebound effect. They are only intended to be a 'quick fix' on rare occasions. If you use them regularly, they will harm your eyes, both with the rebound effect and with the toxic preservatives they contain, which are not suitable for repeated use.

I think what's most important is to find out what's wrong with your tear film and get it addressed. Can't promise anything (since we have many exceptions here on the board) but many people can get their eyes much whiter by finding the best dry eye treatment for their particular situation.

If I need to use red eye drops for a quick fix could you suggest a safe brand?

Personally, I consider that all those types of drops should be banned from over-the-counter sales because so many users end up harming themselves by not realizing the effects of regular use. So I'm not a great person to ask. Seen one vasoconstrictor, you've seen 'em all.