It is very common to experience dry eyes with contact lenses, and I am here to help. For daily management, preservative-free artificial tears are highly recommended. Regarding Refresh Tears, it contains a mild preservative. While safe, it is best not to use it while your contact lenses are actively inserted, as the preservative can accumulate on the lenses and cause irritation. Instead, try applying these drops 15 minutes before inserting your lenses, or after removing them. For relief while wearing your contacts, I recommend using preservative-free lubricating drops or those specifically labeled safe for contact lenses.

Both Refresh Tears (carboxymethylcellulose) and Systane Ultra (polyethylene glycol/propylene glycol) are excellent. Systane Ultra often provides slightly longer-lasting relief due to its formula that forms a protective shield. For long-term use, choose preservative-free versions of these drops to avoid eye irritation. While there is no permanent cure for dry eyes caused by incomplete eyelid closure, using a thicker lubricating ointment or a sleep mask at night can manage it beautifully. Please consult an eye specialist to find the safest long-term routine for you.

Feeling dryness and a foreign body sensation in the eye is most commonly due to dry eye syndrome, which can happen from long screen time, reduced blinking, dust exposure, air-conditioning, or lack of sleep. It can also be related to allergies or mild eye surface irritation. Using lubricating (artificial tear) eye drops, taking regular screen breaks (20-20-20 rule), staying hydrated, and avoiding rubbing your eyes can help. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult an eye doctor for proper evaluation.

A burning sensation in your eyes may be caused by dryness, eye strain, or an outdated spectacle prescription. Try taking regular breaks from screens, using lubricating eye drops (artificial tears), and ensuring your glasses prescription is up to date. If the symptoms persist or worsen, please see an optician or eye doctor for a proper check-up.

Yes, it is safe to use Refresh Tears (carboxymethylcellulose) eye drops to soothe your eyes. These lubricating drops are excellent for relieving temporary dryness and mild irritation. For additional relief, you can apply a clean, cool compress over your closed eyelids for a few minutes and try to avoid rubbing your eyes. If the redness worsens, or if you experience pain, discharge, or changes in your vision, please see an eye doctor for an evaluation.

It is very common for eye infections to spread from one eye to the other, especially in infants who frequently touch their faces. The redness and itching in her right eye are likely from this cross-contamination. While tobramycin is highly effective for bacterial eye infections, please consult her pediatrician before applying the drops to her right eye. Using the same bottle can sometimes spread bacteria, and her doctor will want to confirm the diagnosis and provide the safest treatment plan.