What is a dry eyes treatment?

One treatment for dry eyes is artificial tears, which can often be bought over-the-counter. More severe cases of dry eye might call for prescription medications, treatments that involve inserting tiny plugs into the tear ducts or special contact lenses or inserts.

An examination by an eye doctor can determine if a patient's dry eyes are caused by an underlying condition, such as inflammation. In other cases, plugs can stop tears from leaving the eyes too quickly. Tiny inserts can also be placed in the eyes that dissolve over time and form a substance that mimics natural tears to keep eyes moist.