When OTC Drops Aren’t Enough: Advanced Dry Eye Treatments Explained

For many people, over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops provide temporary relief from dryness, irritation, or burning. However, if you find yourself constantly reaching for artificial tears with little lasting improvement, it may be a sign that your dry eye condition needs more advanced care. At Eye Care Associates of Princeton, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the root causes of dry eye with leading solutions.

 

Why OTC Drops May Fall Short

OTC lubricating drops only manage the symptoms of dry eye; they don’t treat the underlying causes. Chronic dry eye often stems from meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), inflammation, or other conditions that compromise your eye’s natural tear film. Without addressing these issues directly, irritation and dryness will continue to return.

 

OptiLight IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

One of the most effective solutions for moderate to severe dry eye is OptiLight IPL therapy. This innovative treatment targets inflammation and restores healthy oil flow from the meibomian glands, which are essential for keeping tears from evaporating too quickly. Benefits include:

• Reduced inflammation around the eyelids

• Improved tear stability and quality

• Long-term relief without dependency on artificial drops

 

OptiLight IPL is FDA-approved for dry eye management and offers a safe, non-invasive approach that addresses the root cause instead of masking symptoms.

 

Other In-Office Solutions

Depending on your diagnosis, additional treatments may include:

• Prescription medications to reduce inflammation and increase tear production.

• Punctal plugs to help tears stay on the eye longer.

• Specialty contact lenses such as scleral lenses, which provide continuous hydration and protection.

 

A Personalized Approach to Dry Eye Relief

At Eye Care Associates of Princeton, we use advanced diagnostic testing to identify what’s contributing to your dry eye symptoms. From there, we create a customized treatment plan designed to bring you lasting comfort and protect your long-term eye health.

 

Take the Next Step at Eye Care Associates of Princeton

If OTC drops are no longer cutting it, it’s time to explore advanced treatment options that deliver real relief. With therapies like OptiLight IPL, our team can help restore comfort and improve your quality of life.

Schedule a consultation with Eye Care Associates of Princeton to learn how our advanced dry eye treatments can bring you the relief you deserve. Visit our office in Princeton, New Jersey, by call (609) 536-1017 to book an appointment today.