Dry, gritty or red eyes are very common, especially during harmattan, in air-conditioned offices and after long hours on phones and computers. Most cases are mild and improve with simple care and lubricating eye drops. This guide explains the common causes, how to choose eye drops, and when a red eye needs a doctor.

Common Causes of Dry, Irritated Eyes

  • Screen use: people blink much less while looking at screens, so the eyes dry out.
  • Weather and environment: dry, dusty harmattan winds, fans, air conditioning and smoke.
  • Age: tear production naturally falls as we get older.
  • Contact lenses worn for long hours.
  • Some medicines, such as certain antihistamines and blood pressure medicines.
  • Allergies, which often cause itching and watery eyes as well.

Lubricating Eye Drops (Artificial Tears)

Artificial tears add moisture to the surface of the eye. They are the first choice for dry eyes and are safe to use regularly. Many contain hypromellose, for example Drumellose (Hypromellose 0.7%) and Eipico Normo Tears. For eyes that feel dry at night or on waking, a thicker gel such as Hypomer Gel can be used at bedtime, as it may blur vision for a short time.

“Red Eye” Whitening Drops: Use With Care

Drops that “take the red out”, such as Visine Red Hydrating Comfort, contain a decongestant that shrinks the blood vessels in the eye. They work quickly, but they are meant for occasional short-term use only, usually no more than a few days. Using them often can cause rebound redness, where the eyes become redder when the drops wear off. They do not treat dryness or infection, and they are not suitable for people with glaucoma unless a doctor advises.

Drops That Need a Prescription

Antibiotic drops and drops containing steroids (for example combinations with dexamethasone) should only be used when a doctor or optometrist prescribes them. Steroid drops used without supervision can raise eye pressure, cause cataracts and make some infections, such as herpes, much worse.

Never Put These in Your Eyes

Breast milk, urine, kerosene, herbal mixtures, onion juice or other home remedies can cause serious infections and damage the eye. Use only products made for the eye.

Everyday Tips for Dry Eyes

  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something about 20 feet (6 metres) away for 20 seconds.
  • Blink fully and often when using screens.
  • Avoid sitting directly in front of a fan or air conditioner.
  • Wear sunglasses outdoors in dusty or windy weather.
  • Drink enough water.
  • Wash your hands before touching your eyes or putting in drops, and do not let the dropper tip touch your eye.

See a Doctor Urgently If

  • The eye is painful, not just irritated
  • Your vision is blurred or reduced and does not clear with blinking
  • Bright light hurts your eyes
  • There is thick yellow or green discharge
  • The eye has been injured, or a chemical has splashed into it (rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes first)
  • You wear contact lenses and have a red, painful eye
  • Symptoms do not improve after a few days of lubricating drops

The Bottom Line

For everyday dryness, lubricating drops and simple habits usually help. Keep whitening drops for occasional use, avoid prescription drops without advice, and see a doctor quickly if your eye is painful or your vision changes. Our pharmacist can help you choose the right drops.

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This article is for general information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. If you have questions about your health or a product, message our pharmacist on WhatsApp 0916 577 4708 or call 0809 512 7000.