The tear film
To understand when artificial tears are needed, we must start with the tear film, the thin veil that covers the surface of the eye. It serves several functions:
- lubricates the surface of the eye and the eyelids
- removes dust and small foreign bodies
- smooths the corneal surface for clear vision
- acts as a protective barrier
- supplies oxygen and nourishment to the cornea
When tears are scarce or of poor quality, the tear film cannot perform its job effectively. This leads to discomfort such as burning, redness, dryness, or the sensation of having sand in your eyes. In these cases, artificial tears, or tear substitutes, help to hydrate and lubricate the ocular surface.
How to choose
There is no one-size-fits-all artificial tear: formulations vary, and each has its own specific indications. Here are some examples of products you can find with us.
Mild or moderate dry eye
BLUyal, with 0.15% hyaluronic acid and amino acids, preservative-free: indicated for adults with mild to moderate dry eye, caused, for example, by environmental, visual, or mechanical stress. It can also be used with contact lenses.
Severe dry eye
BLUgel A free, with 0.30% sodium hyaluronate, more concentrated: indicated for severe tear dysfunction syndrome to hydrate and lubricate the ocular surface.
Burning, itching, and foreign body sensation
LACRiSEK Free, with liposomes, vitamin A, vitamin E, and amino acids: indicated for symptoms of dry eye syndrome such as foreign body sensation, burning, and itching. It is also available as a spray, to be applied with eyes closed; we discuss this in our article on dry eyes at the computer.
Eyes fatigued by screens and environment
MERAMIRT eye drops, with hypromellose and inositol: useful for ocular discomfort caused by environmental, visual, and mechanical stress, including visual fatigue.
After eye surgery
TRIUM, with hyaluronic acid and Ginkgo biloba extract: indicated for adults to hydrate and lubricate the ocular surface in case of post-surgical alterations, for example after cataract surgery. Always follow your ophthalmologist's instructions after surgery.
The products mentioned are medical devices. Read the warnings and instructions for use carefully.
When to consult an ophthalmologist
If dryness is persistent, if your eyes hurt, are very red, or your vision worsens, do not limit yourself to artificial tears: consult an ophthalmologist. You can find more information on our dry eye page.
Habits also count: taking breaks from screens, avoiding overly dry environments, and eating a varied diet. If you are interested, also read about vision and nutrition.
Not sure which one to choose? Stop by our store in Pieve di Soligo: we are happy to help.