Runny noses, scratchy throats, itchy eyes, and more…
That time of year is here again and allergy suffers are feeling it!
But what happens when those symptoms never go away? Especially—those dry, itchy eyes?
Well, a new report shows a sinister side to reaching for over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops. Let’s talk about it—and what you can do instead…
A true eye-opener
Recently, several brands of eye drops were recalled due to potential microbial contamination that could promote bacterial infections.
In fact, EzriCare and Delsam Pharma “Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops” were voluntarily recalled after reports of eye infections, blindness, and even DEATH.
Not to mention, some users have been forced to have their eyes surgically removed!
This is startling no matter how you slice it, as millions of Americans reach for drops to combat many eye-related symptoms each year…
Without thinking twice.
If that sounds like you, allow this report to be a true “eye-opener.”
After all, eye drops—OTC or prescription—don’t always offer relief. And overusing them can actually promote chronic dry eye symptoms.
That’s why I always recommend more practical strategies…
Practical tips for safe relief
When it comes to dry, itchy eyes, the most basic and effective thing you can do is stay properly hydrated.
But you can also give your eyes a rest by limiting your time in front of electronic screens, laying off the eye makeup, and switching from contact lenses to glasses.
Of course, a recent meta-analysis also suggests that fish oil can offer relief.
This study included 17 trials, featuring both men and women with dry eye disease caused by a range of issues.
A pooled analysis of all participants showed that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation delivered a significant reduction in dry eye symptoms—as well as clinical markers, like corneal abrasion, tear film integrity, and tear production—compared to placebo.
I always recommend 3,000 mg of EPA/DHA—along with 800 IU of vitamin E daily—to my patients with dry eyes.
To learn more about eye health—including chronic symptoms—check out the September 2019 issue of my monthly newsletter, Logical Health Alternatives (“7 easy, drug-free tips for wiping out chronic dry eye”). Not yet a subscriber? Click here now!
Sources:
“Feds Recall Several Types of Eyedrops Amid Reports of Blindness and Death.” TheStreet, 03/09/2023. (thestreet.com/retailers/feds-recall-several-types-of-eyedrops-amid-reports-of-blindness-and-death)
Giannaccare G, et al. “Efficacy of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation for Treatment of Dry Eye Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.” Cornea. 2019 May;38(5):565-573.
“CDC: 2 more people have died after using over-the-counter eye drops — and 4 people had their eyes surgically removed.” Yahoo! News, 3/22/2023. (yahoo.com/news/cdc-2-more-people-died-191113360.html)