That gritty, tired, or scratchy feeling in your eyes can be a constant distraction. You might find yourself blinking more often or reaching for eye drops, just looking for a moment of comfort. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and our team at Windsor Eye Care can help you understand what’s causing your discomfort.
You may have dry eyes if you frequently experience discomfort, redness, or even watery eyes, as these are common indicators that your tears aren’t lubricating your eyes properly. It’s a condition that can affect your daily comfort and vision. Understanding the signs is the first step toward finding relief.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Dry eye is a common and often chronic condition that can have a wide range of symptoms.
What It Feels Like
Discomfort linked to dry eye is often difficult to ignore. You might notice:
- A stinging, burning, or scratchy feeling
- A sense that something is in your eyes
- Eye fatigue or blurred vision
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
- Redness & irritation
Unexpected Signs You Might Notice
Sometimes, the signs of dry eye are not what you’d expect. These less obvious symptoms can be just as disruptive. Some people also experience:
- Watery eyes—this is your body’s response to the irritation
- Difficulty with nighttime driving
- Light sensitivity
- Discomfort while wearing contact lenses
Is It Dry Eyes or Allergies?
It can be tricky to tell the difference between the two, especially given that allergies can contribute dry eye symptoms. Generally, itchy eyes that happen year-round are a sign of dry eye, while seasonal itchiness may point toward allergies.
What Causes That Dry, Gritty Feeling?
Dry eye occurs when your tear film is disrupted. Your tears need a balance of oil, water, & mucus in order to keep your eyes properly lubricated. Problems with any of these layers can lead to discomfort.
Not Enough Tears
Sometimes, your eyes just don’t produce enough tears to stay moist. This can be related to a few different factors, including:
- Age
- Hormone changes
- Certain medicines
- Some health conditions
Poor Quality Tears
Other times, your eyes do make enough tears, but these tears evaporate too quickly. Causes of evaporative dry eye include:
- Clogged meibomian glands (the oil glands in your eyelids)
- Blinking less often, especially when you focus on a screen
- Environmental factors like wind, smoke, or dry air
- Eyelid problems
Factors That May Increase Your Risk for Dry Eyes
Certain factors can make it more likely for you to develop dry eyes. Understanding what makes dry eye worse can help you connect your symptoms to your daily habits.
- Age: Tear production can slow down after age 50.
- Gender: Women are more likely to experience dry eyes, especially during pregnancy or menopause.
- Diet: A diet low in vitamin A or omega-3 fatty acids can be a factor.
- Screen Time: Long hours on a computer or tablet can reduce how often you blink, leading to dryness. This is also a primary cause of what’s known as computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain.
- Contact Lenses: Wearing contact lenses can contribute to eye dryness for some people. A proper fitting during your contact lens exam can help find lenses suited for you.
Simple Lifestyle Changes for Relief
You can try a few things at home to help your eyes feel more comfortable. Small adjustments can make a positive difference in your day-to-day life. These simple habits can support your eye health and reduce irritation.
- Stay Hydrated: Try to drink at least eight glasses of water each day to support overall hydration.
- Adjust Your Diet: Add more foods with omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon & walnuts, to your meals.
- Take Screen Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Add Moisture to the Air: Use a humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time, like your bedroom or home office.
- Protect Your Eyes: Wear wraparound sunglasses outside to block wind & dry air from your eyes.
- Position Your Computer Screen: Place your screen a few inches below eye level, as this reduces your eye’s exposure to dry air, thereby reducing tear evaporation.
When to Talk to an Eye Doctor in Atlanta, GA
If you’ve tried making lifestyle changes and your eyes still feel tired, irritated, or painful, it might be time to get a professional opinion. An eye doctor can help figure out what’s causing your discomfort. You don’t have to simply get used to the feeling.
How a Professional Checks for Dry Eyes
As your eye doctor in Atlanta, we’ll perform a comprehensive eye exam to look closely at your eyes & tears. This helps us understand the specific causes of your dry eyes.
Find a Path to More Comfortable Vision
You don’t have to live with constant eye irritation. At Windsor Eye Care, we’re here to help you and your family find answers and relief for uncomfortable eye symptoms. We deliver a high standard of eye care and customer service in a welcoming environment. Schedule a visit with us to discuss your eye health and take the next step toward more comfortable vision.
