That scratchy, tired feeling in your eyes might be more than just a bother. It might be a sign of dry eye. At Higgins Brothers’ Vision Care, we know this common condition happens when your tears do not provide enough moisture.
You can tell if you have dry eye by recognizing common signs such as a gritty sensation, redness, or even blurry vision. Understanding the symptoms is the first step toward finding comfort for your eyes. Learning about the causes can also help you find relief.
First Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye
The feelings that come with dry eye can be mild or very uncomfortable. According to the National Eye Institute, you may notice symptoms get worse at certain times. This can happen after a long day of screen use or in a windy place. Symptoms may include:
- A stinging, burning, or scratchy feeling
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Increased sensitivity to light
- The sensation of having something in your eye
- Redness or irritation
- Watery eyes—your body’s response to the irritation
- Blurred vision or eye fatigue
Common Causes of Eye Dryness
Many things in your daily life can lead to dry eye. It’s often a mix of your health, habits, and your surroundings. These factors can affect your tear production.
Environmental Factors
Your environment plays a big role in how your eyes feel. Exposure to smoke, wind, and dry climates can cause tears to evaporate quickly. Even sleeping with a fan can increase airflow across your eyes and lead to dryness.
Screen Time and Daily Habits
When you focus on a digital screen, you tend to blink less often. This reduced blink rate means your tears do not spread across the eye’s surface as they should. This can lead to dry spots and discomfort.
Age and Other Health Factors
Dry eye becomes more common as you get older. Certain medical conditions and medications can also reduce tear production. Your eye doctor can help determine if these factors play a role.
What Can Be Mistaken for Dry Eye?
Some eye conditions have symptoms similar to dry eye. A professional evaluation can help you get the right information.
Eye Allergies
Allergies can cause intense itching along with redness and watering. While dry eye can feel gritty, the main symptom of allergies is often a strong urge to rub your eyes.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis involves inflammation of the eyelids. It can cause a gritty feeling and redness. These symptoms can feel very similar to dry eye.
Simple Checks and When to See an Eye Doctor
You can pay attention to certain signs at home. These signs can let you know it’s time to visit your eye doctor.
Observe Your Blink Rate
Notice how your eyes feel during activities that require focus, like reading or using a computer. If your eyes start to burn or feel strained, you may not be blinking enough to keep them moist. Practicing the 20-20-20 rule can offer some relief.
When at-Home Observations Are Not Enough
If your symptoms do not go away or start to affect your daily life, it’s a good time to get a professional opinion. An eye doctor in Plainville can perform a dry eye test to measure your tear production and quality for an accurate picture of your eye health.
Find Relief for Dry Eye
There are many ways to manage dry eye symptoms and feel more comfortable. The right approach for you depends on what is causing your dryness. Options range from simple lifestyle changes to personalized therapies.
At-Home Care and Adjustments
Simple changes can make a noticeable difference in how your eyes feel. Consider these easy adjustments:
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air
- Take frequent breaks from screens to rest your eyes
- Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to block wind
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Professional Dry Eye Therapies
If at-home care is not enough, your eye care team can suggest other options. Our Dry Eye Center offers professional therapies designed to address the specific reason for your discomfort. These unique optical solutions are tailored to your needs for long-term relief.
Take Control of Your Dry Eye Symptoms
You don’t have to live with the discomfort of dry eye. Understanding your symptoms is the first step toward clear and comfortable vision.If you’re experiencing ongoing eye irritation, the team at Higgins Brothers’ Vision Care is here to help. You can receive personalized attention to find the right path forward. Schedule a visit to discuss your symptoms and learn about your options.
