Over The Counter Medicine For Red Itchy Eyes
Red and itchy eyes are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, infections, and dryness. The good news is that there are several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines available to help relieve the symptoms of red itchy eyes. In this article, we will explore some of the best OTC medicines for red itchy eyes and how they work.
What Are the Symptoms of Red Itchy Eyes?
Before we delve into the best OTC medicines for red itchy eyes, it's important to understand the symptoms of this condition. Red itchy eyes can cause the following symptoms:
- Redness
- Itching
- Burning sensation
- Watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause of your red itchy eyes.
Antihistamine Eye Drops
Antihistamine eye drops are one of the most common OTC medicines used to treat red itchy eyes caused by allergies. These eye drops work by blocking the release of histamine, a chemical that is produced by the body in response to an allergen. Histamine is what causes the itching and inflammation associated with allergies.
Some of the most popular antihistamine eye drops include:
- Alaway
- Zaditor
- Claritin Eye
- Visine-A
- Opcon-A
These eye drops can be used as needed to relieve symptoms of red itchy eyes caused by allergies. However, it's important to follow the instructions on the package carefully, as overuse of these eye drops can cause rebound redness and irritation.
Mast Cell Stabilizers
Mast cell stabilizers are another type of OTC medicine used to treat red itchy eyes caused by allergies. These eye drops work by preventing the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause inflammation in the eyes.
Some of the most popular mast cell stabilizer eye drops include:
- Alomide
- Crolom
- Alocril
- Optivar
Like antihistamine eye drops, mast cell stabilizer eye drops can be used as needed to relieve symptoms of red itchy eyes caused by allergies. However, it's important to follow the instructions on the package carefully to avoid overuse.
Decongestant Eye Drops
Decongestant eye drops are another type of OTC medicine used to treat red itchy eyes. These eye drops work by constricting the blood vessels in the eyes, which reduces redness and swelling.
Some of the most popular decongestant eye drops include:
- Visine
- Clear Eyes
- Opcon-A
Decongestant eye drops can be used as needed to relieve symptoms of red itchy eyes caused by allergies or other irritants. However, it's important to follow the instructions on the package carefully, as overuse of these eye drops can cause rebound redness and irritation.
Artificial Tears
Artificial tears are a type of OTC medicine used to treat red itchy eyes caused by dryness. These eye drops work by lubricating the eyes and replacing natural tears.
Some of the most popular artificial tears include:
- Systane
- Blink Tears
- Refresh Tears
- GenTeal
Artificial tears can be used as needed to relieve symptoms of red itchy eyes caused by dryness. However, it's important to follow the instructions on the package carefully, as overuse of these eye drops can cause temporary blurred vision.
Conclusion
Red itchy eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are several OTC medicines available to help relieve the symptoms. Antihistamine eye drops and mast cell stabilizers are best for allergies, decongestant eye drops are best for redness and swelling, and artificial tears are best for dryness. It's important to follow the instructions on the package carefully for any OTC medicine to avoid overuse and rebound redness.