woman putting eye drops in her eye

How Long Does It Take for Eye Drops to Work for Dry Eyes?

Jul 1, 2024 | Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eyes can be a persistent and uncomfortable issue, affecting your daily life and overall eye health. One of the most common treatments for dry eyes is eye drops. But how long does it take for eye drops to work, and what should you do if they no longer provide relief? 

Understanding dry eyes 

Dry eyes occur when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can result in symptoms such as: 

  • A stinging or burning sensation 
  • Redness 
  • Blurry vision 
  • Sensitivity to light 
  • A feeling of having something in your eye 

How dry eye drops work 

Over-the-counter eye drops, also known as artificial tears, are designed to provide immediate relief by lubricating the surface of your eyes. They can help restore moisture, reduce inflammation, and improve tear film stability. 

How long does it take for eye drops to work? 

The effectiveness and speed of relief from eye drops can vary based on the severity of your dry eyes and the type of drops used. Generally, you can expect to feel relief within a few minutes to an hour after applying the drops. The duration of relief can also vary, with some drops providing a few hours of comfort, while others may last longer. 

What to do if eye drops are no longer effective 

If you find that over-the-counter eye drops are no longer providing the relief you need, True Focus Eye Care offers a range of advanced treatments, such as prescription eye drops and treating oil glands, as well as dry eye products available online. Use our discount code TRUEFOCUS to get 20% off! 

Here are some options we offer: 

  • Specially formulated eye drops: These eye drops are specifically designed to provide longer-lasting relief and address the underlying causes of dry eyes. They contain ingredients that help reduce inflammation and improve tear production. 
  • Eye health supplements: Nutritional supplements can play a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, have been shown to support tear production and reduce symptoms of dry eyes. 
  • Moist heat compresses: Moist heat compresses can help open up the oil glands in your eyelids, improving the quality of your tears and providing relief from dry eyes. Regular use of these compresses can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments. 
  • Spray solutions: Spray solutions can be applied directly to closed eyelids and help stabilize the tear film, offering another layer of relief for those struggling with dry eyes. 

If you continue to experience discomfort despite using over-the-counter eye drops and other treatments, it’s essential to seek professional care. Chronic dry eyes can lead to more serious eye health issues if left untreated. 

At True Focus Eye Care, our dry eye specialists in Port Richey, Florida are dedicated to helping you find effective and lasting relief from dry eyes. Schedule an appointment with us to explore the best treatment options for your condition. 

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