Waking up with dry, scratchy eyes can certainly put a damper on your morning and your eye health. If you often wonder, “Why are my eyes so dry in the mornings?” you’re not alone. Many individuals face this issue, especially when they first wake up.
Morning dry eye can stem from several causes, such as nocturnal lagophthalmos, sleeping with contacts in, environmental factors, or underlying medical conditions. In this blog, we’ll dive into the reasons behind morning dry eye and provide some practical solutions to help you start your day with clear, comfortable vision.
The next time you schedule an eye exam, we hope you’ll do so with a sense of relief and refreshed eyes!
Common Causes of Morning Dry Eye
1. Decreased tear production at night
While you sleep, your body naturally produces fewer tears. This is part of the body’s normal sleep cycle. Tears are crucial for keeping your eyes lubricated, protecting them from irritants, and preventing dryness. Without sufficient tears, your eyes may feel dry, irritated, or even red upon waking. To address this, staying hydrated and using artificial tears can help reduce persistent dryness.
2. Incomplete eyelid closure (Nocturnal Lagophthalmos)
Some people sleep with their eyelids slightly open, a condition called nocturnal lagophthalmos. When this happens, the surface of your eyes may dry out overnight, causing discomfort and irritation. If untreated, this condition can lead to more serious issues like eye infections or corneal damage. Solutions include eye ointments, humidifiers, and special masks designed to keep your eyes closed during sleep. If you suspect you may have nocturnal lagophthalmos, it’s a good idea to consult with an eye specialist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
3. Contact lens wear
Sleeping with contact lenses can exacerbate dry eyes. Lenses can absorb moisture from your eyes, leaving them feeling dry and irritated when you wake up. Additionally, the reduced oxygen flow to your eyes while you sleep can make dryness even worse. To reduce these effects, use lubricating eye drops and always follow your optometrist’s guidelines regarding contact lens wear.
4. Environmental influences
Your sleep environment plays a significant role in eye health. Low humidity, air conditioning, or heating systems can dry out the air in your home and, consequently, your eyes. This is particularly problematic if you already suffer from dry eye syndrome or allergies. Sleeping with a fan blowing directly on your face can also worsen dryness. For better eye comfort, try to maintain a balanced humidity level in your bedroom.
5. Underlying health conditions
Certain medical conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), and Sjögren’s syndrome can disrupt tear production, contributing to dry eyes. If you have any of these conditions, managing them with the help of your doctor can significantly improve your symptoms.
Solutions for Morning Dry Eye
1. Use a humidifier
Introducing moisture into the air with a humidifier can help prevent your eyes from drying out overnight. This is especially helpful in dry climates or during winter when indoor air tends to be drier.
2. Apply artificial tears before bed
Lubricating eye drops before bed can help keep your eyes moist while you sleep. Look for preservative-free artificial tears for the best results.
3. Ensure proper eyelid closure
If you think you may be sleeping with your eyes partially open, discuss potential solutions with your eye doctor. This issue is more common than you might think, and can cause dryness and discomfort. Your doctor may recommend using an eye mask or an ointment to keep your eyes closed and moist during the night. They may also suggest other treatments to improve your sleep quality.
4. Care for your contact lenses
If you wear contacts, follow proper lens care instructions. Consider using daily disposable lenses, and always remove your lenses before bed to give your eyes a break and reduce dryness.
5. Maintain good eyelid hygiene
Proper eyelid hygiene can help prevent conditions like blepharitis and MGD. Clean your eyelids gently with a mild cleanser to remove any buildup of bacteria or debris that could contribute to dry eyes.
6. Consult an eye care professional
If your dry eyes persist despite trying the above solutions, it may be time to visit an eye care professional. They can conduct a thorough examination and provide tailored recommendations for managing your symptoms.
Managing Morning Dry Eye
While waking up with dry eyes can be an uncomfortable way to start the day, understanding the causes of morning dry eye and taking steps to address them can make a significant difference. By incorporating a few proactive strategies into your routine, you can enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision and begin your day with ease.
If persistent dryness is affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of our expert eye care professionals at Doctors Eyecare Grande Prairie. We’re here to provide personalized advice and effective treatment options to help you achieve optimal eye comfort.
