Dealing with Dryness in both eyes?

Question

Over the last 2.5-3 years I was addicted to Vasoconstricters and developed Rebound Hyperemia. I quit the Vasoconstricters cold turkey about 1.5-2 weeks ago and have noticed the redness has gone down slightly, but its still there. While I was using the Vasoconstricters I beleived I developed dryness in the eye because my eyes always feel dry and have a burning feeling. The redness that is still in my eyes usually will not become more inflamed until I go somewhere that makes my eyes feel dry.

For example, when I go into work or any type of store where they have the A/C on with bright lighting, I notice that the redness in my eyes immediately becomes much worse than it was before. I also notice that my eyes feel dryer than usual. My eyes dry out very quickly when I am on the computer as well. I've tried drops like optive, soothe xp, and systane, but they all seem to have the same, minimal effect. The systane that I put in my fridge helps dim the redness, but does very little to help the dryness. I also notice that when I try cold compresses over closed eyes the redness in my eyes dims fairly well, but then comes back 2-3 minutes later. I cannot seem to get these red veins to disappear. They are ALWAYS there no matter what I do. They were never there before I started using Vasoconstricters, and my eyes were never this dry before I started using Vasonconstricters. What can I do to fix this? I want to see an eye doctor but my parents are reluctant for taking me as they think its too much computer use, but wouldnt these symptoms go away after taking breaks from the computer? If I were to go see an eye doctor by myself what kind of paper work would I need? I am 19 years old so I do not need my parents with me.

Answer 1

Ok, hon. I am an optician and the mom of a 19 year old. Just so you know.  The drops you are using are the best on the market. The cold compresses are also great. You need to keep doing what you are doing for a couple more weeks. It takes a while to completely recover from this kind of weird thing that the vasoconstrictors do to you.  You can go to the doctor and they can help you with a few things, but what you are doing is what they would most likely tell you. You relaly just need to wait it out. Another thing you might do is make sure that you have 8-10 glasses of water a day and take some flax seed oil. This will get some good omega 3's in your system and also keep your eyes hydratd by making the tears thicker an not as easy to evaporate. Hang in there, I think another week or two and you will be about to normal. I feel for you, but if you feel best by consulting your doctor, go for it! With something like this it is kind of a waiting game!