Minor Ailments

Dry Eye

Find dry eye treatment options with pharmacist-recommended drops and personalized care advice.

Managing Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort and potential vision issues. It is a chronic and common condition, especially in older adults, contact lens wearers, and those who spend long hours in front of screens. While not usually serious, dry eye can significantly affect quality of life. PharmaChoice pharmacists can help you find the right eye drops and strategies to manage your symptoms effectively.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Symptoms include a persistent stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in the eyes, sensitivity to light, redness, blurred vision, difficulty wearing contact lenses, and paradoxically, excessive tearing as the eyes attempt to compensate for dryness. Symptoms often worsen after reading, driving, or screen use.

How Your Pharmacist Can Help

Your PharmaChoice pharmacist can recommend the most appropriate artificial tear products based on your symptom severity and lifestyle — from drops and gels to ointments. They can also advise on environmental modifications, lid hygiene, and when to consult an eye care specialist for more advanced treatment.

Find Dry Eye Relief Near You

Find dry eye treatment options with pharmacist-recommended drops and personalized care advice. Book an appointment with your local PharmaChoice pharmacist.

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to common questions about dry eye, including causes, the best eye drop options, and lifestyle tips for relief.

What causes dry eye syndrome?

Dry eyes can be caused by aging, hormonal changes, prolonged screen use, air conditioning or heating, contact lens wear, certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants), or underlying conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome or blepharitis.

What is the difference between dry eye drops and regular eye drops?

Artificial tear drops designed for dry eyes supplement your natural tear film and are safe for regular, long-term use. Other eye drops (such as redness relievers) are not meant for frequent use and can worsen dryness over time.

How often can I use artificial tears?

Preservative-free artificial tears can be used as frequently as needed. Eye drops with preservatives should be used no more than 4 times per day to avoid irritation from the preservatives themselves.

Can screen time cause dry eye?

Yes. When looking at screens, people blink less frequently, causing tears to evaporate faster. Following the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can help reduce eye strain and dryness.

When should I see a doctor about dry eye?

Consult a doctor or optometrist if your dry eye symptoms are severe, persistent, affect your vision, or do not improve with over-the-counter treatments. Prescription options and in-office treatments may be available.

Get care guidance and treatment support from your pharmacist.

Our pharmacists can assess symptoms and prescribe treatments for minor ailments.