Dry Eyes Symptoms: Recognising Eye Irritation Causes

Dry Eyes Symptoms: Identifying Eye Irritation & Seeking Relief

Dry eyes develop due to insufficient tears or poor-quality tears that lubricate the eyes. Tears help to hydrate, wash, and defend the ocular surface. The inadequate quantity or quality of tears might cause inflammation of the ocular surface, which contributes to discomfort, visual disturbances, and increased risk.

Therefore, it’s essential to understand the symptoms of dry eyes for early diagnosis and timely treatment. Keep reading to learn about the key symptoms of dry eyes, their causes, and available treatment options.

What are Dry Eyes?

Dry eye (also called dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is an eye disease caused by the insufficiency of moisture and sufficient lubrication of the surface of the eye. This can develop through a reduction of tear production, over-evaporation of watery tears, or a deficiency of the balance of the tear mix.

Though dry eye develops occasionally and tends to resolve itself, it can lead to complications that diminish sight and quality of life. Long-lasting dry eyes might need medical treatment to eliminate chronic problems.

What are the Common Dry Eye Symptoms?

Dry eyes may have mild or severe symptoms and may develop in one or both eyes. Early recognition of these signs can prevent complications and improve comfort. Common symptoms include:

1. Burning or Stinging Sensation: One of the most reported dry eye symptoms is a constant or intermittent burning sensation in the eyes. It may feel like your eyes are sunburned or irritated by dust.
2. Redness and Inflammation: Dry eyes often appear red due to inflammation of the eye’s surface. Chronic redness may signal ongoing irritation.
3. Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): People with dry eyes may experience discomfort in bright lighting or while driving at night.
4. Blurred or Fluctuating Vision: Tears are essential for maintaining a smooth eye surface. Without adequate lubrication, vision may become blurred or fluctuate throughout the day.
5. A Gritty or Sandy Feeling: This sensation feels like something is constantly in your eyes, such as dust or particles, even when none are present.
6. Stringy Mucus in or Around the Eyes: Mucus build-up is a less common but noticeable sign, primarily upon waking.
7. Eye Fatigue: Eyes may feel strained or tired, especially after reading, using a computer, or doing close-up work for long periods.
8. Difficulty Wearing Contact Lenses: Dryness may cause discomfort when using contact lenses or lead to frequent removal.
9. Excessive Tearing (Paradoxical Symptom): Although it seems counterintuitive, people with dry eyes may also experience watery eyes. This happens when the eyes overcompensate for dryness, producing poor-quality reflex tears that evaporate quickly.
    

What are the Causes of Dry Eyes Symptoms?

Knowledge of the causes of dry eyes aids in their early diagnosis and appropriate control. The common causes are:

• Ageing: The production of tears automatically slows down with age, particularly beyond 50.
• Hormonal Changes: In women, especially during times of pregnancy, menopause or when taking birth control pills.
• Environmental Factors: Tear evaporation can be augmented by wind, dry climate, smoke and air conditioning.
• Screen Time: The insufficient distribution of tears is caused by the decreased blinking when using digital devices.
• Medical Conditions: Like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid diseases and Sjögren syndrome.
• Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, decongestants, and some high blood pressure medications can reduce tear production.
• Contact Lens Use: Natural tear production can be disrupted with long-term use.
• Eye Surgeries: LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and cataract surgery can alter tear production, either temporarily or permanently.
   

What are the symptoms of Dry Eyes?

An ophthalmologist or optometrist may perform the following diagnostic approaches:

• Patient history and symptom review
• Tear production tests (e.g., Schirmer’s test)
• Tear-film breakup time assessment
• Meibomian gland evaluation
• Corneal health examination to check for damage
   

What are the Treatment Options for Dry Eye Symptoms?

Effective treatment depends on identifying the root cause and tailoring therapy accordingly. Here are commonly recommended dry eyes symptoms and treatment strategies:

• Artificial Tears and Lubricant Eye Drops: These are the first line of defence and are available over the counter. Preservative-free options are preferred for chronic use. They help moisten the eyes and provide temporary relief.
   
• Punctal Plugs: Tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tear drainage and keep the eye surface moist for longer.
   
• Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene: Daily cleansing and compressing can help with Meibomian gland dysfunction—a major cause of evaporative dry eye.
   
• Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil, fish oil, or supplements may improve the quality of the tear film.
   
• Environmental Adjustments
   
• Use a humidifier indoors to maintain moisture levels.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to block wind and dry air.
• Take frequent breaks during screen time (20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
   
• Prescription Therapies
   
• Anti-inflammatory drops: Cyclosporine (Restasis), lifitegrast (Xiidra).
• Serum Drops: Made from your blood for severe cases.
• Tear-Stimulating Agents: E.g., pilocarpine, cevimeline.
• Thermal Pulsation or Light Therapy: For chronic Meibomian issues.
• Perfluorohexyloctane (Miebo/Evotears): A newer FDA-approved (Food and Drug Administration) therapy
   
• Surgery (in Rare Cases): Surgical procedures to close the tear drainage ducts may be considered for severe or unresponsive cases.
   

What are the Preventive Measures for Dry Eyes Symptoms?

Preventing dry eyes involves simple yet effective lifestyle changes:

• Limit screen time and take breaks
• Avoid exposure to smoke, wind, or dry air.
• Use protective eyewear in harsh environments.
• Stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
• Eat a balanced diet of vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3s.
• Ensure good sleep habits to allow the eye surface to recover.
   

Proper dry eye management often requires regular consultations, diagnostic tests like tear film analysis, and follow-ups with ophthalmologists. These medical expenses, especially for chronic conditions, can accumulate over time.

Dry eyes are more than temporary irritation; if left untreated, they can significantly impact comfort, vision, and daily life. By understanding dry eye symptoms, identifying the triggers, and exploring suitable dry eye symptoms and treatment options, individuals can effectively protect their eye health.