Vision Source Mandan Blog

Your Medications May Be Causing Dry Eye​

If you have dry eyes and can’t figure out why, the answer may be in your cupboard. Dry eye is often a side effect of certain medications.

People are surprised to learn that even non-prescription medications could be contributing to their uncomfortable eyes.

Common Medication Examples

  1. Antibiotics taken orally have been known to cause dry eyes. Penicillins can cause redness, itchiness, and blurred vision.
  2. Pain relievers like ibuprofen can cause dryness, blurriness, and even color vision changes. If your eyes are aggravated by this, take lower doses and be sure to drink plenty of water.
  3. Decongestants made to ease allergy symptoms can also, ironically, cause stinging of the eye and create a gritty sensation.
  4. Birth control pills can make eyes dry because of hormone fluctuations. Certain kinds may also cause light sensitivity.
  5. Antidepressants target nerves in the brain, which can result in disruption of your normal eye function. Symptoms could include double vision and eye sensitivity.
  6. Some artificial tears, surprisingly, have been known to further irritate eyes. Be sure your artificial tears are preservative-free and do not contain BAK. Better yet, use the brand recommended by your Vision Source® eyecare professional.

The Effects Of Dry Eye

Dry eye creates discomfort, can impede vision and cause red eyes and itchiness. If you commonly rub your eyes when they’re dry and itchy, it can also cause corneal scratching. Dry eyes are missing the natural protection provided by tears.

Talk To Us About Your Medications

You usually can’t toss aside a medication simply because it make your eyes uncomfortable. We understand. Talk with a Vision Source® doctor about it. We can help you find a solution that will keep you healthy and keep your eyes comfortable. 

Your eye health is important to us! Find a Vision Source® practice near you to discuss it further. 

Top image by Flickr user Pat David used under Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 4.0 license. Image cropped and modified from original.

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My annual eye exam is always an excellent experience with Dr. Danielle Dyke. The exam is always thorough, and Dr. Dyke takes the time to explain my eye health in a way I can understand. The Vision Source eye clinic is modern, clean, and the staff is very welcoming. I always feel comfortable and well-cared for at my appointment. I highly recommend Dr. Dyke and Vision Source!

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Dr. Schauer did an amazing job getting my eye infection cleared up. As I sat in my room waiting my turn, because I had a last minute appointment, I could hear her working with a family next door that had young kids.

Fred S.

Whenever I have had eye issues, they have made efforts to get me in asap. Which I really appreciate. I have had Dr. Aberle and Dr. Dyke and they are both excellent. Recently, I saw Dr. Aberle for a chronic eye problem in one eye & he fixed the problem. Honestly, it felt like a miracle. The office staff is also very pleasant to deal with.

Sheila S.

I've literally been a lifelong customer since 5th grade when it was Dr. Little! Dr. Schauer has taken over since Dr. Little retired. It's always a good, friendly experience with all of the staff there. I've never had a bad experience.

Bill S.

The front desk people are very nice and friendly got called in to see Wayne before my appointment time Vision Source has very friendly staff and the clinic is very clean will always be a patient to Vision Source.

Deborah C.

I was greeted by the front desk very efficiently. The person who did the first part of my history and did the testing like the little spritz in my eyes, etc, was very good. I really like my eye doctor, I feel that I get all my questions answered as well as she explains what she is seeing when she is examining my eyes.

Dolly A.

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