Do you keep getting up at night to splash your eyes with water? Or, sometimes, lift a corner of your upper lid in bright sunlight to peer through what feels like a fine grating of sandpaper? If so, you may have an uncomfortable and annoying dry eye problem.
Our eyes are made of sensitive mucous membranes designed to filter light and facilitate a complex interplay of airborne particles, ocular fluids, and tears. Sometimes these bits and pieces don’t function as well as intended and cause discomfort, full-blown disease, and impairment.
If you feel like you have dry itchy eyes, you should dive into the following questions and see whether or not underlying medical conditions might be to blame. Read on!
Symptoms of Dry Itchy Eyes
Dry eyes can manifest in a few distinct ways. One is that your eyes feel uncomfortable and scratchy. Another is that you might have a hard time producing tears, or your tears might evaporate too quickly. In addition to the feeling of having something in your eye, other symptoms can include dry red eyes, burning, and increased sensitivity to light.
You might also notice that your vision is blurry or that you have difficulty keeping your eyes open. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see your doctor so they can diagnose the problem and help you find a solution.
Common Causes
Eyes that are dry and itchy could be caused by various factors. In many cases, dry eyes result simply from dry, dusty, or windy weather conditions. Indoor heating and air conditioning can also contribute to dry eye symptoms.
Several factors might also contribute, including dehydration, aging, and certain medical conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome. Itchy eyes can sometimes indicate a more severe condition, such as an autoimmune disease or blepharitis.
The body’s ongoing fight against allergens might also bring dryness and itching to the eyes. Hay fever and chronic exposure to dust and other allergens can also cause this symptom.
Furthermore, several drugs, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and even some birth control pills, can cause this condition as a side effect. You should consult your doctor about possible alternatives if you take any of these drugs and have had dry, itchy eyes.
Treatment for Dry Itchy Eyes
Treatment for dry, itchy eyes will vary depending on the underlying cause. If allergies are the cause, avoiding the offending allergens is the best treatment. This may include avoiding dust, pet dander, or pollen triggers.
Sometimes, it involves using artificial tears or eye drops to lubricate the dry eyes and help keep them hydrated. More severe cases may require dry eye prescription drops or ointments. In extreme circumstances, punctal plugs or eyelid surgery may be necessary.
Keep Your Eyes Healthy To Avoid Dry Itchy Eyes
There are a few possible explanations if you’re experiencing dry itchy eyes. It could be due to allergies, a side effect of medication, or simply a result of dry weather. No matter the cause, treatments are available to help soothe your symptoms.
If the problem keeps happening, you should see your doctor. They can help you determine what’s happening and give you the best treatment.
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