Dry Eyes Sting

Itchy, scratchy, stinging, red eyes. Dry eyes are uncomfortable and affect up to 30% of people older than 50.

Dry eye symptoms can be caused by environmental factors like low humidity, dust, wind, smoke, and pollen. Dermatological conditions like rosacea and medications such as antidepressants can also contribute to dry eyes.

You may feel like your eyes are dry and scratchy or even extra watery and running down your face if your eyes aren’t producing high-quality tears. Overwatering is caused by low-quality tears that won’t stay in your eye.

Our optometrists want to help you find a long-term solution to your dry eye symptoms. Speak to your eye doctor if you think you may have dry eyes, and we can get started on helping you find a solution.

That Dry Feeling

Dry eyes may be characterized by one or more of the following symptoms:

Scratchy sensation
Feeling like there’s something in your eye
Stinging or burning sensation
Red eyes
Sensitivity to light
Blurry vision
Watery eyes
Eye fatigue
Stringy mucus

Why Are My Eyes Dry?

Dry eyes is caused by tears that aren’t doing their job. Your eyes could not be producing enough quality tears, or your tears are developing too quickly, leaving your eyes vulnerable to irritation. In many cases, dry eyes are caused by meibomian gland dysfunction.

Your tears are made up of 3 parts that work together to provide proper lubrication and protection for your eyes. Water, meibum oil, and mucus create a tear that stays in your eye, lubricates it, and assists with providing clear vision.

Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eyes are complex and can include many contributing symptoms:

Aging
Medical conditions, including allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies, and more
Medications like antihistamines, decongestants, hormone therapies, antidepressants, blood pressure medication, birth control, and more
Prolonged contact lens use
Laser eye surgery (this is typically temporary)
Digital eye strain and blinking less often
Existing eyelid problems (lids turning outward or inward)
Eye allergies
Using low-quality eye drops that contain preservatives
Wind, smoke, or dry air
Meibomian gland dysfunction
Posterior blepharitis

Finding Relief

Our optometrists will work with you to find a solution for your dry eyes. We have many treatments and solutions available to alleviate your symptoms.

If dry eyes are left untreated, symptoms can sometimes lead to further eye health complications, including damaged tissue and a scarred cornea.

From eye drops and heated eye masks to medications and other treatments, we want you to find relief for your dry eye symptoms. Dry eyes affect many people, and even with proper treatment, the symptoms will sometimes return. If you suspect you may have dry eyes, speak with your optometrist today.

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