Learn More About Artificial Tears for Dry Eye Relief: A Trusted Solution for Comfort

If you live in Grosse Pointe Woods, you’re no stranger to the elements—cold winters, breezy lakefront air, and even the occasional bout of summer humidity. While beautiful, these conditions aren’t always kind to your eyes. Many of our patients at Pointe Vision Care experience the burning, stinging, and irritation of dry eye, and artificial tears are often the first line of defense in finding relief.

Why Is Dry Eye So Common?

Living near Lake St. Clair brings many advantages—gorgeous water views, fresh air, and an active outdoor lifestyle. But this environment can also contribute to dry eye. The wind off the lake can quickly dry out the tear film, and during winter, indoor heating systems zap moisture from the air, making dry eye symptoms even worse.
 

We also can’t ignore the fact that many people spend hours each day on screens, whether for work, school, or leisure. Digital eye strain is a major contributor to dry eye, as staring at screens reduces blink rates and leads to faster tear evaporation.
 

How Artificial Tears Help Relieve Dry Eye

Artificial tears are lubricating eye drops designed to supplement your natural tear film. They work by adding much-needed moisture to the surface of the eyes, which helps soothe dryness and irritation. In addition to providing hydration, artificial tears help reduce discomfort by calming inflammation and supporting overall eye comfort.
 

These drops also improve the stability of the tear film, which is crucial in preventing excessive tear evaporation—a common cause of dry eye symptoms. Some formulations are even effective at flushing out small particles, allergens, and other debris that can contribute to irritation.
 

When used consistently, artificial tears can provide meaningful relief, particularly for individuals experiencing mild to moderate dry eye. They’re a simple yet effective first step in managing symptoms and improving daily eye comfort.
 

Different Types of Artificial Tears

Not all artificial tears are the same, and choosing the right type can make a big difference. Here’s a quick breakdown of the options:

• Preservative-Free Drops – Ideal for those with sensitive eyes or who need to use drops frequently. They come in single-use vials to avoid irritation from preservatives.

• Thicker, Gel-Based Drops – Best for nighttime use or severe dryness, as they provide longer-lasting hydration.

• Lipid-Based Drops – These are designed for those with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), helping to restore the oily layer of the tear film and reduce tear evaporation.
   

At Pointe Vision Care, we can help you determine the best option based on your symptoms and lifestyle.
 

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If you’re reaching for artificial tears multiple times a day and still experiencing dry, irritated eyes, it may be a sign that your condition requires more than just over-the-counter relief. Chronic dry eye often needs a more comprehensive and personalized approach to manage symptoms effectively and improve long-term comfort.
 

One potential next step involves prescription eye drops that are specifically formulated to reduce inflammation and help improve your eyes’ natural ability to produce tears. These medications can offer more targeted relief than artificial tears alone.
 

Nutritional supplements, particularly those containing omega-3 fatty acids, may also play a role in supporting tear quality and reducing inflammation from within. Adding these to your daily routine can be a natural way to support overall eye health.
 

For more persistent or severe cases, in-office treatments may be recommended. These options can include therapies designed to unblock oil glands, reduce inflammation, or physically retain moisture on the eye’s surface. Your eye doctor can help determine which combination of treatments is best for your specific needs and lifestyle.
 

Find Lasting Relief at Pointe Vision Care

Dry eye is a frustrating and often persistent condition, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether you’re dealing with occasional dryness from the lake air or chronic irritation from screen time, our team is here to help. We’ll take the time to understand your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan so you can get back to seeing comfortably.
 

If artificial tears aren’t providing the relief you need, schedule a dry eye evaluation with Pointe Vision Care. Contact our office in Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan, by calling (313) 546-0600 to book an appointment today.