You blink and rub at your eyes, but that annoying feeling just won’t go away. Maybe that dry feeling is the worst after a long day at the computer, or perhaps they sting when you step outside into the wind. Whether your symptoms just started or you’ve been dealing with the discomfort for a while, the team at Valley Eye & Vision Clinic knows that dry eye can make it hard to focus on your day.
That scratchy, burning, or gritty sensation is often what dry eye feels like: An irritation often caused by a problem with your tears. This can happen when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears you do produce aren’t of the right quality.
Feelings and Symptoms of Dry Eye
While dry eye can feel different for everyone, some common symptoms often appear. Your eyes may feel uncomfortable in several ways. Look out for:
- A scratchy or gritty feeling, like sand is in your eye
- Stinging or burning sensations
- Redness and irritation
- Watery eyes, which can be the body’s response to irritation
- Blurry vision that comes and goes
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty with night driving
- A feeling of heavy eyelids
While often temporary, persistent blurriness is a sign that your dry eye may benefit from professional help.
Causes of Dry Eye
That uncomfortable feeling often happens because something is off in the balance or production of your tears. Your eyes need a healthy layer of tears to stay smooth and clear. When something is off, you notice it very quickly.
Not Enough Tears
Sometimes, your eyes just don’t produce enough tears to stay properly lubricated. This can happen for several reasons, but factors like age, environment, and certain medications can affect your tear production.
Poor Tear Quality
Your tears are a mix of water, oil, and mucus. If this mix is off (especially if there isn’t enough oil), your tears can evaporate too quickly. This often stems from problems with the small glands lining your eyelids, leaving your eyes unprotected and dry.
Your Daily Life and Surroundings
Things around you can also play a part. Long hours on a computer, dry or windy climates, and even some daily habits can contribute to symptoms of digital eye strain and dryness.
Why See an Optometrist for Help
Some symptoms of dry eye can seem like other common eye issues. Eye allergies, for example, can also cause redness, itchiness, and watery eyes. Digital eye strain from screens can cause blurry vision and tired eyes, too.
A great way to know what’s causing your discomfort is to have your eyes checked. A comprehensive eye exam helps an optometrist figure out what might be going on so that they can help you find the path to relief.
Soothe Your Eyes At Home
You can try a few things at home that may help your eyes feel more comfortable while you wait for your eye exam. These simple adjustments can make a difference in your daily comfort.
- Blink more often: When you stare at screens, you blink less. Make a point to blink fully and frequently to help spread your tears.
- Take screen breaks: Use the 20-20-20 rule, every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air in your home or office can help slow down tear evaporation.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support your body’s functions, including tear production.
When to Visit Your Optometrist
If your symptoms don’t improve or start affecting your daily life, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit. An optometrist can perform a full eye exam to understand the contributing factors to your dry eye.
The team can then suggest a plan tailored for you. This might involve special eye drops, in-office treatments, or other solutions to help your eyes feel better.
Don’t Let Dry Eye Control Your Life
You don’t have to just live with the discomfort of dry eye. If you’re ready to get to the bottom of your eye irritation, the team at Valley Eye & Vision Clinic is here to help. Schedule your appointment today to find a solution that works for you.