Eye drops help many eye conditions and diseases. As researchers continue to improve and create new eye drops, awareness of the types of eye drops and some of the conditions these drops treat, may encourage someone to seek help for an eye condition. For other people, knowing the types of eye drops may help determine which eye drop could work best with their condition.
Non-Prescription
Some eye drops, such as artificial tears, do not require a prescription, and can be found in most drug stores. Eye drops that decrease redness do not require a prescription, though The Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology explains that these drops do not treat the condition, they simply make the white of the eye "appear less red." Allergy eye drops are available as well. When purchasing any over-the-counter eye drops, be aware that allergic reactions to the drops may occur. Contact an eye doctor with any changes in discomfort or vision.
Short-Term Use
Doctors often prescribe antibiotic eye drops to treat infections such as conjunctivitis, also known as "pink eye." The doctor gives specific instructions for the amount of time to use the drops, and, even if symptoms improve after a few uses, the person using the drops should continue using them as directed. Another type of prescription medications used for short-term treatment includes steroid eye drops, a drop that should only be used while under the care of an eye doctor, warns The Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Long-Term Use
Glaucoma is the most common eye condition that requires long-term, often a lifetime use of eye drops. Glaucoma occurs when a high pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve, slowly affecting vision. In order to reduce the pressure, doctors often prescribe one or more eye drops that the patient takes every day. However, "because glaucoma often has no symptoms, people may be tempted to stop taking, or may forget to take their medicine," says the National Eye Institute. Patients must use the drops regularly for the best results, and the best chances of keeping vision.
Diagnostic Use
Doctors use eye drops during eye exams. Dilating eye drops widen the pupil and allow the doctor to examine the back of the eye. The doctor may also use numbing eye drops to check eye pressure or to briefly relieve surface pain from foreign bodies. Though the numbing drops may offer instant relief for many people, constant or frequent use may harm the eye, causing permanent damage, says The Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
