Eye Redness & Dryness
Red or dry eyes are commonly caused by allergies, screen fatigue, environmental irritants, or mild infection.
Common Symptoms
- Redness, itching, or burning eyes
- Dry, gritty feeling
- Watery discharge
Over-the-Counter Options
Artificial tears
Lubricates and relieves dry eyes
Examples: Refresh Tears, Systane, TheraTears
Antihistamine eye drops
Allergy-related redness and itch
Examples: Zaditor, Alaway, Pataday
Decongestant eye drops
Whitens red eyes quickly
Examples: Visine Original (short-term only)
Preservative-free drops
For sensitive eyes or frequent use
Examples: Refresh Optive, Systane Ultra PF
Helpful Tips
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen fatigue: every 20 min, look 20 ft away for 20 sec
- Don't use redness-relief drops more than 3 days — rebound redness can occur
- Remove contacts before using eye drops
- Store preservative-free drops properly after opening
When to See a Doctor
Seek urgent care for sudden vision changes, eye pain, sensitivity to light, or eye redness with discharge and crusting (possible pink eye needing treatment).