Dry eyes or gritty feeling
Overview
Dry eyes is a condition where the eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort and irritation. This results in a gritty, sandy sensation in the eyes, often accompanied by burning, stinging, or feeling like something is stuck in the eye.
Common Causes
Dry eyes commonly occur when your tear glands don't produce enough moisture or when tears evaporate too quickly. This can happen naturally with aging, hormonal changes during menopause, or certain medications like antihistamines and antidepressants. Environmental factors such as dry air, wind, air conditioning, or prolonged screen time can worsen the condition by increasing tear evaporation. Contact lens wear, lack of blinking while concentrating, and some medical conditions can also contribute to insufficient eye lubrication.
Severity Levels
Mild: You may notice occasional dryness or slight grittiness, especially after long periods of screen time or in dry environments. Symptoms are intermittent and don't significantly impact daily activities.
Moderate: Dryness and gritty sensations occur more frequently throughout the day and may affect your comfort during routine tasks like reading or driving. You might find yourself blinking more often or rubbing your eyes for relief.
Severe: Persistent, uncomfortable dryness that interferes with daily activities and sleep. The gritty feeling is constant and may be accompanied by significant irritation that makes it difficult to focus on work or enjoy normal activities.
Medical Attention
You should see a doctor if your symptoms persist for more than a few days despite using over-the-counter eye drops, or if you experience severe pain, vision changes, or discharge from your eyes. Seek immediate medical attention if you have sudden onset of severe symptoms or if your eyes become very red and painful. It's also important to consult an eye care professional if the condition interferes with your daily activities or if you wear contact lenses and experience worsening discomfort.
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