Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Choose the Best Eye Drops for Pain?

Jodee Redmond
Jodee Redmond

Before choosing eye drops for pain, a consumer will need to determine what issue is causing the discomfort. There are a variety of drops on the market which can be used for treating eye pain, but using the wrong one will not provide the kind of relief that the individual is looking for. There are formulations on the market which can be used to treat dry eyes and discomfort caused by staring at a computer screen for long periods of time, allergies and eye infections, and each one works differently.

If the pain in the eye area is caused by dryness, the individual should find eye drops for pain which can add moisture to the surface of the eye. A careful examination of the product packaging will reveal whether it is meant for this purpose. A consumer who finds him or herself using artificial tears regularly without getting symptom relief should make an appointment to see an eye doctor to determine the true cause of the pain.

Anatomy of the human eye.
Anatomy of the human eye.

People who are using a computer or other devices with a screen for an extended time may experience eye strain. The right eye drops for pain in this instance would be a formulation that works on the eye muscles to help them relax and help lower the risk of an eye spasm. Taking breaks to look away from the screen regularly can also help people who are experiencing eye strain and may help to reduce the use of eye drops to treat this condition.

Different eye drops work for different types of eye pain.
Different eye drops work for different types of eye pain.

If the issue with the eyes is due to allergies, the right eye drops for pain will likely contain an antihistamine which will get to the underlying cause of the redness and discomfort. These drops will help to decrease the discomfort and will help to keep the surface of the eye lubricated. An individual who experiences seasonal allergies will get to know which times of the year the symptoms are most likely to present themselves. If similar symptoms occur during other times, a visit to an eye doctor is a good idea.

Eye drops that help the eye muscles relax might benefit someone with eye strain.
Eye drops that help the eye muscles relax might benefit someone with eye strain.

An eye infection is another circumstance where a person may be looking for eye drops for pain. If an infection is suspected, the sufferer should consult a physician. The patient may need prescription eye drops to deal with the infection. The doctor or a pharmacist can provide information about the right way to use the drops to combat the infection.

Discussion Comments

serenesurface

My eyes become red, inflamed and painful when I have seasonal allergies. I just use eye drops labeled for allergies. It has anti-histamines in it which helps with the inflammation. I think the pain is due to the inflammation too because when that goes away, so does the pain.

discographer

@burcidi-- Have you seen an eye doctor?

Over-the-counter eye drops might provide some relief but if there is something seriously wrong, wouldn't you want to find out first?

I don't mean to scare you but sharp eye pain can be a symptom of glaucoma. Glaucoma is when pressure in the eye increases and damages nerves. It's very serious and has to be treated immediately.

It could also be the case that you had something in your eye though. So maybe it's not that serious. You can try artificial tears for now to hydrate and clean your eyes but I would see a doctor as soon as possible if I were you.

burcidi

Lately, I've been experiencing a sharp pain in my left eye. It comes and goes from time to time but when it happens it literally makes me jump.

Is there an over-the-counter eye drop that can help with this?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Anatomy of the human eye.
      Anatomy of the human eye.
    • Different eye drops work for different types of eye pain.
      By: alco81
      Different eye drops work for different types of eye pain.
    • Eye drops that help the eye muscles relax might benefit someone with eye strain.
      By: Innovated Captures
      Eye drops that help the eye muscles relax might benefit someone with eye strain.
    • The right kind of eye drops depends on if the eye pain is causing dryness, strain, allergies, or another issue.
      By: Winai Tepsuttinun
      The right kind of eye drops depends on if the eye pain is causing dryness, strain, allergies, or another issue.
    • Scratches to the cornea -- even minor ones -- can cause eye pain.
      By: Delphimages
      Scratches to the cornea -- even minor ones -- can cause eye pain.