Are Over-the-Counter Eye Drops Good for Dry Eye?

If you’ve ever felt like there’s something gritty or scratchy in your eye that won’t go away, you’re not alone. Dry eye syndrome affects millions of people and can make everyday tasks—like reading, using screens, or driving—uncomfortable or even painful.

At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, we see patients from Knoxville, Farragut, Fountain City, Sevierville, Maryville, and Hardin Valley who struggle with symptoms like:

Burning, stinging, or itching
Redness and light sensitivity
Heavy, fatigued eyes
Excessive tearing (a paradoxical symptom of dryness)

The good news? Over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops can offer significant relief in many cases, if you choose the right type and use them appropriately.

What Triggers Dry Eye?

Dry eye can be triggered by a number of lifestyle and environmental factors:

Screen Time: Reduced blinking while using digital devices limits natural tear distribution
Dry or Windy Air: Common in both indoor HVAC settings and outdoor environments
Contact Lenses: Can reduce oxygen flow to the cornea and disrupt tear film
Allergies: Inflammation from pollen, dander, or dust can dry out the eyes
Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medications can reduce tear production
Age & Hormonal Changes: Tear glands become less active due to aging, menopause, or hormonal fluctuations
Lifestyle Habits: Smoking and alcohol can both contribute to poor tear quality and evaporation
Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and blepharitis are all associated with chronic dry eye

Can Over-the-Counter Eye Drops Help?

Yes—OTC eye drops (artificial tears) are often an effective first-line treatment, especially for mild to moderate dry eye symptoms. These drops work by supplementing your natural tears to hydrate and protect the eye’s surface.

However, not all drops are created equal. Here’s how to choose:

For Mild Symptoms: Standard lubricating drops work well for occasional dryness
For Nighttime Relief: Thicker gels or ointments provide long-lasting moisture while you sleep
For Frequent Use: Look for preservative-free drops, which are gentler on the eyes and safe for regular use
For Moderate to Severe Symptoms: Choose drops with anti-inflammatory properties or consult your doctor for prescription options
Omega-3 Enriched Drops: May help improve the quality of tear production in some cases

Some formulations even target specific causes, such as drops for allergy-related dry eye or those designed for patients with meibomian gland dysfunction.

When to See an Eye Doctor

While OTC drops can help many people, persistent or severe dry eye symptoms may require a personalized treatment plan. At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, we may recommend:

Xiidra® prescription eye drops used twice a day to treat eye inflammation
RESTASIS® Ophthalmic Emulsion prescription eye drops twice a day to increase tear production for patients with Aqueous Dry Eye
Punctal plugs to prevent tear drainage from the eyes by inserting tiny plugs in the tear canal to temporarily close tear ducts

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you’re constantly reaching for eye drops, waking up with irritated eyes, or feeling like your vision is compromised by dryness, it’s time to consult a specialist. Our team proudly serves patients across Knoxville, Farragut, Fountain City, Sevierville, Maryville, and Hardin Valley with comprehensive dry eye evaluations and treatment plans tailored to you.

Click HERE to request your appointment today.

Dry eyes shouldn’t be your new normal. With expert care and the right treatment plan, you can get back to living—and seeing—comfortably.