The doctor warned about the risks of using vasoconstrictors

Vasoconstrictor drops and sprays can be addictive after just a few days of use, and their prolonged use can lead to serious tissue damage. On July 15, Karina Kozina, an ophthalmologist at the Vision Ophthalmological Center, told Izvestia.

"The drug itself creates the problem for which it continues to be used. Over time, the previous dosage ceases to bring the desired effect, and the number of applications increases. As a result, chronic vasoconstriction impairs blood supply to tissues, which can lead to their thinning and gradual destruction. In severe cases, patients already require surgical treatment," the doctor explained.

Kozina emphasized that vasoconstrictors are intended exclusively for short-term use. It is usually considered safe to use for three to five days. If symptoms persist for longer, it is necessary to consult a doctor to find the cause of the disease, rather than continuing to use the drug.

The expert noted that a similar problem exists with eye drops that eliminate redness. Such drugs also contain vasoconstrictive components and quickly make the eyes visually "rested". However, with daily use, addiction develops, and redness after discontinuation of the drops becomes even more pronounced.

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According to the ophthalmologist, the constant use of such drugs can lead to drug—induced conjunctivitis, a condition in which the eyes can no longer independently maintain a normal vascular condition. The doctor recommended using such drops only as a temporary measure. If redness occurs regularly, it is necessary to look for its true cause — dry eye syndrome, allergies, fatigue, incorrectly selected contact lenses or other diseases.

The development of addiction can be suspected by several signs. Among them is the need to use the drug more often than recommended by the instructions, increased symptoms without drops compared to the initial condition, as well as the constant desire to carry the bottle with you.

When such symptoms appear, Kozina advises not to stop using the drug on your own, especially if the dependence has been formed for a long time. According to her, it is safer to contact a specialized ophthalmologist or an otorhinolaryngologist, who will help you gradually abandon vasoconstrictors and choose a treatment for the underlying cause of the disease.

The expert recalled that such drugs do not eliminate the disease, but only temporarily mask its manifestations. Therefore, the sooner the patient goes to the doctor, the lower the risk of serious complications.

On April 17, Associate Professor of the Department of Ophthalmology at the Institute of Motherhood and Childhood of the Russian State Medical University, ophthalmologist, PhD Tatiana Pavlova told how to maintain eye health. The expert recommended humidifying the air, especially during the heating season, when it gets dry. According to her, when working with gadgets, the natural process of blinking is disrupted, so it is important to consciously pause and blink more often. She also noted the popular 20-20-20 rule: after 20 minutes of visual activity, you should take a break and look into the distance for about 6 m.