Quick Scoop

People in America most often need eye drops for dry eyes, allergies, eye infections, glaucoma, and to relieve irritation after surgery or injury. A solid fact is that eye drops are widely used in the U.S., and one source says the number of Americans using them once or more per day increased nearly 10% from 2011 to 2020.

Main Reasons

  • Dry eye relief. Eye drops, especially artificial tears, are commonly used when the eyes do not make enough natural moisture or when tears evaporate too quickly.
  • Allergies. Antihistamine or soothing drops can help with itchy, red eyes caused by allergies.
  • Eye infections. Some drops contain antibiotics or other medicine for infections.
  • Glaucoma. Prescription drops are often used to lower eye pressure and help protect vision.
  • Routine eye exams. Doctors also use drops to dilate the pupils during comprehensive eye exams.

One Useful Fact

A helpful fact is that eye drops do not always cure the underlying problem; sometimes they mainly relieve symptoms while the real condition still needs treatment. Another fact is that dry eye is very common and tends to become more frequent as people age and spend more time on screens.

Simple Example

Someone might use over-the-counter lubricating drops after a long day on a computer, while another person with glaucoma may need prescription drops every day to protect their vision.

TL;DR

Eye drops are used in America mostly for dry eyes, allergies, infections, glaucoma, and eye exams, and a notable fact is that daily use has grown over time in the U.S.