Eye Irritation

Q:  In early spring I had a lot of irritation in my left eye, a feeling like there was something in it. Some days there would be constant irritation; other days it didn't bother me at all. At my check-up in May, I mentioned this to my doctor. She checked the eye and said there was nothing in it, but there was a slight red spot, which was possibly allergy-related irritation, but not infection. Her direction was to use over-the-counter eye drops to alleviate discomfort.

It is now November and it is much the same. Is it safe to use OTC eye drops for an extended period of time? Should I return to the doctor for further evaluation?

A:  There are a variety of over-the-counter eye drops. Some, like Tears Plus, are made of water and minerals and basically just for lubricating dry, irritated eyes. Chronic use of these lubricating solutions should not cause any problems. Other drops, like Visine, contain a chemical that constricts the blood vessels in the eye to drive the redness away. Overuse or extended use could lead to a rebound redness. Some people can develop allergic reactions to preservatives or chemicals contained in the eye drops with prolonged use.

The fact that you developed the problem in early spring when plants begin growing again suggests the possibility of an allergy. Since you're still having eye irritation in the winter so many months later, a return visit to your doctor is a good idea.

"Dear Doctor" is a compilation of patient questions answered by doctors from the Medical College of Wisconsin.