Dry Eye Relief and Artificial Tears
Dry eye syndrome affects millions across the UK, particularly those who spend long hours at computers, live in air-conditioned environments, or take certain medications. This condition occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort, irritation, and potential vision problems.
Types of Artificial Tears
When selecting artificial tears, you'll encounter two main categories: preservative-free and preserved drops. Preservative-free options are ideal for frequent use and sensitive eyes, whilst preserved drops offer longer shelf life and are suitable for occasional use.
Systane: Long-lasting protection with various formulations for different severity levels
Hylo-Forte: Preservative-free drops with sodium hyaluronate for intensive moisture
Blink: Convenient single-dose vials perfect for on-the-go relief
Clinitas: Comprehensive range from light drops to intensive gels
Choose gel drops for nighttime use or severe dryness, as they provide longer-lasting relief. Liquid drops work best for daytime use and mild to moderate symptoms. For optimal effectiveness, tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid, and apply drops to the inner corner, avoiding contact between the dropper and your eye.
Eye Allergies and Antihistamine Drops
Eye allergies significantly impact daily life, particularly during spring and summer months when pollen counts soar. Seasonal allergies typically occur during specific times of year, whilst perennial allergies persist year-round due to dust mites, pet dander, or mould.
Common Symptoms and Treatment
Allergic reactions manifest through persistent itching, redness, excessive watering, and eyelid swelling. These symptoms can range from mild irritation to severe discomfort that interferes with work and sleep.
Several effective antihistamine eye drops are available without prescription in UK pharmacies:
Otrivine-Antistin: Fast-acting dual formula combining antihistamine with vasoconstrictor
Opticrom: Mast cell stabiliser providing long-term allergy prevention
Pollenshield: Specifically formulated for hay fever and seasonal allergies
Modern dual-action formulations combine antihistamines with mast cell stabilisers, offering both immediate relief and prevention of future reactions. To prevent allergies, apply drops before exposure to known triggers, keep windows closed during high pollen days, and wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors. Consult your pharmacist or GP if symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen despite treatment.
Eye Infections and Antimicrobial Treatments
Eye infections are amongst the most common ocular complaints treated in UK pharmacies. Understanding the different types helps ensure appropriate treatment selection and optimal patient outcomes.
Common Eye Infections
The three most frequently encountered eye infections include conjunctivitis (pink eye), which affects the clear membrane covering the eye; styes, painful lumps that develop along the eyelid margin; and blepharitis, chronic inflammation of the eyelid edges causing irritation and flaking.
Treatment Options and Hygiene Practices
Over-the-counter antimicrobial treatments available include Golden Eye ointment containing propamidine isetionate and Brolene drops with propamidine isetionate. These treatments are effective against bacterial infections when applied correctly using clean hands and avoiding contamination of applicator tips.
Wash hands thoroughly before and after application
Avoid touching the eye or eyelid with applicator tips
Use separate treatments for each affected eye
Complete the full course even if symptoms improve
Prescription antibiotics may be necessary for severe bacterial infections or when over-the-counter treatments prove ineffective after 48 hours of proper use.
Contact Lens Care and Solutions
Proper contact lens maintenance is essential for eye health and comfortable wear. The UK market offers comprehensive care systems suitable for different lens types and wearing schedules.
Cleaning and Storage Solutions
Multi-purpose solutions provide convenient all-in-one cleaning, disinfecting, and storage for soft contact lenses. Popular UK brands include Biotrue, which matches the eye's natural pH, OptiFree with excellent deposit removal properties, and AOSEPT hydrogen peroxide systems offering superior disinfection for sensitive eyes.
Enhanced Care Products
Weekly protein removal tablets help eliminate stubborn deposits that daily cleaning may miss. Rewetting drops restore moisture and comfort throughout the day, particularly beneficial in air-conditioned environments or during extended computer use.
Replace storage cases every three months minimum
Never reuse or top up old solution
Allow cases to air dry between uses
Use only recommended solutions for your specific lens type
Hydrogen peroxide systems require complete neutralisation before lens insertion and offer excellent disinfection for users with solution sensitivities.
Eye Vitamins and Nutritional Support
Essential Nutrients for Eye Health
Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision throughout life. Three key nutrients have been scientifically proven to support eye health: lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids. These powerful compounds work together to protect the delicate structures of the eye from oxidative damage and age-related deterioration.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that accumulate in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. These nutrients act as natural blue light filters and antioxidants, helping to protect against harmful light exposure and free radical damage. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of retinal cells and supporting tear film quality.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration Prevention
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50 in the UK. Research has shown that specific nutritional interventions can significantly reduce the risk of developing advanced AMD. The landmark AREDS and AREDS2 studies demonstrated that targeted supplementation with vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, and lutein/zeaxanthin can slow the progression of intermediate to advanced AMD by approximately 25%.
Available Supplements
Our pharmacy stocks a comprehensive range of evidence-based eye health supplements from trusted brands:
Ocuvite - Complete eye vitamin formulations based on AREDS2 research
MacuShield - High-strength lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin supplements
Viteyes - Targeted nutritional support for various eye conditions
Preservision - Scientifically formulated AMD prevention supplements
Omega-3 specific formulations for dry eye support
Clinical Evidence and Recommended Dosages
Clinical studies support daily dosages of 10mg lutein, 2mg zeaxanthin, and 1000-2000mg of omega-3 fatty acids for optimal eye health benefits. These nutrients can also be obtained through dietary sources including leafy green vegetables, eggs, and fatty fish. However, supplements ensure consistent therapeutic levels, particularly important for individuals at higher risk of eye disease.
Eye Hygiene and Daily Care Products
Eyelid Cleansing Solutions
Maintaining proper eyelid hygiene is essential for preventing and managing common conditions such as blepharitis, dry eyes, and styes. Our range of specialised eyelid cleansing products includes gentle, preservative-free wipes and solutions specifically formulated for the delicate eye area. These products effectively remove debris, excess oils, and bacteria whilst being suitable for daily use.
For those suffering from blepharitis, regular eyelid hygiene with appropriate cleansing solutions can significantly reduce inflammation and discomfort. Tea tree oil-based products offer natural antimicrobial properties, whilst hypochlorous acid solutions provide gentle yet effective cleansing action.
Gentle Eye Makeup Removal
Proper makeup removal is crucial for maintaining eye health, particularly for those who wear eye makeup regularly. Our selection includes ophthalmologist-tested makeup removers that are specifically designed for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. These formulations effectively remove waterproof mascara and long-wearing eye makeup without causing irritation or leaving oily residues.
Therapeutic Heat Treatment
Warm compress therapy is recommended by eye care professionals for managing dry eyes, blocked meibomian glands, and styes. We offer convenient microwaveable eye masks that provide consistent, therapeutic heat for the recommended 10-15 minute treatment periods. These reusable masks maintain optimal temperature longer than traditional warm flannels and ensure more effective treatment outcomes.
Screen Time Protection and Computer Vision Relief
With increasing screen time in modern life, computer vision syndrome has become increasingly common. Symptoms include eye strain, dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. Our range of products designed to combat these issues includes:
Artificial tear drops specifically formulated for screen users
Blue light blocking glasses for extended computer use
Eye exercise guides and reminder tools
Adjustable screen filters and ergonomic accessories
Preservative-free lubricating drops for frequent use
Regular breaks from screen work, combined with appropriate eye care products, can significantly reduce the symptoms of computer vision syndrome and protect long-term eye health.
