The sensation of dryness, burning, or grittiness in the eyes typically occurs when the surface of the eyeball is not adequately moisturized. This condition can be temporary and resolve naturally, but it may also persist if irritating factors continue to be present.

Air conditioning, wind, and dry environments

Dry air, wind, smoke, or extended periods in air-conditioned rooms can cause tears to evaporate rapidly, leading to moisture loss on the eye's surface. Changes in living or working environments, particularly moving to a drier or more polluted climate, can also trigger sudden onset of symptoms.

Increased phone and computer use

Focusing on phones or computers often reduces blink frequency, causing the tear film on the eye's surface to break down and evaporate more quickly. This is a common factor leading to dry, irritated eyes or a foreign body sensation. If your screen time for work or leisure has recently increased, you may experience symptoms even if your eyes were not previously dry.

Long-term viewing of electronic device screens can reduce blink frequency, causing eye discomfort. *AI-generated image.*

Side effects of certain medications

Certain medications can cause or worsen dry eyes, including antihistamines, decongestants, some antidepressants, and treatments for high blood pressure. If you experience dry, irritated eyes after starting a new medication, consult your doctor rather than discontinuing the drug independently.

Increased contact lens wear

Contact lenses can impact the tear film and exacerbate dry eye, particularly with prolonged wear. If you have recently extended your wearing time or just started using contact lenses, this could be a contributing factor if your eyes suddenly feel dry and irritated.

Underactive oil glands in the eyelids

Tears consist of water and an oil layer that helps limit evaporation. If the meibomian glands in the eyelids become blocked or underactive, this oil layer is insufficient to stabilize the tear film, leading to rapid tear evaporation and dry eyes. This condition can be associated with age, hormonal shifts, certain medical conditions, or medications.

Certain medical conditions

Dry eyes can sometimes indicate systemic conditions such as thyroid disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders like sjögren's syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Dry eye may also develop after certain eye surgeries.

If dry, irritated eyes persist or recur without a clear cause, individuals should consult an eye specialist to determine if the issue stems from tear production or evaporation rate.

When to seek medical attention?

Mild dry eyes can often improve with self-care measures: resting the eyes, blinking frequently during screen use, and minimizing exposure to dust, wind, and direct air conditioning. Artificial tears can also help reduce discomfort.

Individuals with painful, dry eyes should seek medical attention if symptoms persist, worsen, impact daily life, or do not improve with typical measures. Clear eye pain, significant redness, or blurred vision also warrant examination by an ophthalmologist.

Bao Bao (Compiled)