Do you ever feel like there’s sand in your eyes? This unpleasant sensation is called “gritty eyes,” and it’s a common sign of dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or produce poor-quality tears.
Many people ignore dry eye symptoms, hoping they’ll go away eventually. However, if your dry eye is severe or chronic, it’s important to see an eye doctor for professional care. In this blog, we’ll talk more about this condition and share tips for finding relief.
Symptoms of dry eye syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Some of the most common ones are redness, itching, burning, watery eyes, and, of course, a feeling of sand in your eyes. In more severe cases, you might even have blurry vision or be sensitive to light.
Common causes of dry eye syndrome
There are many different causes of dry eye syndrome, including aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, and environmental factors like dry air and wind. Your eyes can also get dry if you don’t blink enough. When you spend lots of time on the computer or reading, you don’t blink as much, which means your eyes make fewer tears. This can make your eyes feel dry and gritty.
Treatment for dry eye syndrome
Luckily, there are multiple ways to manage and treat dry eye syndrome. Your eye doctor can diagnose this condition during an eye exam and recommend the best treatment for your needs. Treatment options may include over-the-counter or prescription eye drops, nutritional supplements, or making lifestyle changes like using a humidifier or taking breaks from screens. Using warm compresses, staying hydrated, and wearing sunglasses on windy days may also help.
If you’re experiencing gritty eyes or other dry eye symptoms, don’t ignore them. At Integrity Eye Care in Murfreesboro, our eye doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating dry eye. He’ll evaluate your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to fit your needs. Don’t let dry eye syndrome affect your daily life—schedule your appointment today!