Artificial tears
Artificial tears can help. They come in different thicknesses, you may have to experiment to find the right one. Some drops contain preservatives that might irritate your eyes. Drops without preservatives do not usually bother the eyes. Nonpreserved tears typically come in single-dose packages to prevent contamination with bacteria.
Ointments
At night, an eye ointment might provide more relief. Ointments are thicker than artificial tears and moisturize and protect the eye for several hours. They may blur vision, which is why some people prefer to use them while they sleep.
Pellets
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose is a chemical that lubricates the surface of the eye and slows the evaporation of natural tears. It comes in a small pellet that you put in your lower eyelid. When you add artificial tears, it dissolves and forms a film over your own tears that traps the moisture.
Other Options
Eye surgery, called punctal occlusion, can close the tear ducts that drain tears from the eye. For a temporary closure, a doctor can insert plugs into the ducts. Collagen plugs eventually dissolve. Silicone plugs are more permanent until they are removed or fall out. For longer lasting effects, ducts can also be permanently sealed.
