It’s not unusual to experience discomfort in your eyes when you first wake up in the morning. This is usually because you’ve been lying down for a long period of time and your eyes have become dry.
What causes dry eyes?
Dry eyes are a common problem that can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Age
- Gender (women are more likely to experience dry eyes than men)
- Certain medications
- Medical conditions such as diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome
- Environmental factors such as wind, smoke, or dry air
If you have dry eyes, you may notice that your eyes feel gritty or sandy. You may also experience burning, stinging, or itching. In severe cases, dry eyes can lead to blurred vision or difficulty wearing contact lenses.
How to relieve symptoms of dry eyes
There are a number of things you can do to help relieve the symptoms of dry eyes, including:
- Use artificial tears. These can help keep your eyes lubricated and prevent further irritation.
- Avoid using hot air blowers and fans.
- Increase the humidity in your home or office with a humidifier.
- Take frequent breaks when working on the computer or reading.
- Blink frequently to keep your eyes lubricated.
If you’re having difficulty managing your dry eye symptoms, talk to your doctor. They may recommend additional treatments such as medicated eye drops or ointments. In severe cases, they may suggest a short course of oral steroids. With proper treatment, you can relieve your symptoms and protect your vision.
