At Doctors EyeCare Grande Prairie, our team understands that, no matter how much you blink or rinse, discomfort caused by dry eye often doesn’t seem to go away. The gritty sensation caused by dry eye can make it hard to focus on work, enjoy a good book, or even drive comfortably.
Dry eye happens when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears to stay properly lubricated. Common symptoms include a scratchy or gritty feeling, stinging or burning sensations, as well as redness and irritation.
Common Sensations of Dry Eye
You might notice a range of uncomfortable feelings when your eyes are dry. The experience is different for everyone, but some common dry eye symptoms can signal a problem. These include:
- A scratchy or gritty feeling, like sand is in your eye
- Stinging or burning sensations
- Redness and irritation
- Sensitivity to light
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
- Watery eyes—which is the body’s response to the irritation
- Blurred vision or eye fatigue
Why Your Eyes Feel Dry & Uncomfortable
Dry eye occurs when your tears don’t lubricate your eyes properly. Typically, this is due to the quality of your tears or how many tears your eyes produce. Your tears need the right balance of water, oil, and mucus to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
Daily Habits & Environment
Your surroundings and daily activities can affect your eyes. Factors like exposure to wind, smoke, and dry climates can cause tears to evaporate too quickly. Long hours spent looking at a computer or phone screen can also lead to less blinking, which contributes to digital eye strain and dryness. To help reduce discomfort, try following the 20-20-20 rule during screen time.
Age & Health Factors
As you get older, tear production naturally slows down. Certain health conditions and medications may also impact the amount or quality of the tears your eyes make, thereby leading to discomfort.
Other Conditions That Feel Like Dry Eye
Sometimes, what feels like dry eye could be related to another issue. A proper exam with your optometrist is a helpful way to identify the source of your discomfort.
Other possible causes of dry eye-like symptoms include:
- Eye allergies
- Blepharitis—inflammation of the eyelids
- Irritation from wearing contact lenses
- Corneal abrasions or scratches
How to Find Relief for Dry Eyes
Managing dry eye symptoms often involves a combination of at-home care and professional guidance. The right approach depends on what’s causing your discomfort, so it’s about finding what works for you.
Simple Changes You Can Make at Home
Small adjustments to your routine can make a big difference. Try to blink more often when you use digital screens, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You can also try applying a warm compress to help soothe irritation.
Over-the-Counter Options
Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief by supplementing your natural tears. There are many types of drops available, so you may need to try a few to find one that feels right for your eyes.
Professional Dry Eye Therapy
If at-home remedies don’t provide enough relief, your optometrist can recommend more specific dry eye treatments, including prescription eye drops and in-office procedures.
When to Visit Eye Doctors in Grande Prairie
While occasional dryness is common, persistent discomfort is a sign that you should schedule an eye exam. Consider making an appointment if you experience:
- Symptoms that last for more than a few days
- Increasing eye pain or redness
- Changes in your vision
- Discomfort that does not improve with lubricating drops
Our team at Doctors EyeCare Grande Prairie can help identify the source of your issues and explore treatment options. Book an appointment today to get the care your eyes need.
