Why Do My Eyes Feel Itchy or Gritty?

If your eyes feel itchy, gritty, irritated, or uncomfortable, you may be experiencing dry eyes. In this article, we’re going to break down what dry eye syndrome is, the symptoms of dry eye, the causes of dry eye syndrome, and how you can reduce the symptoms.

 

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can affect both eyes, causing discomfort such as a scratchy or irritated feeling. It can also lead to blurry vision between blinks. Despite its discomfort, it rarely causes serious eye damage.

 

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye is an abnormal change in the tear film, resulting in sensations of grittiness or irritation.

The tear film, consisting of three layers, plays a vital role. Compromises in any of these layers can lead to dry eye symptoms.

• The mucin layer adheres tear layers to the eye’s surface.
• The watery middle layer provides moisture and nutrients.
• The outer oily layer, produced by the meibomian glands, prevents rapid tear evaporation.

Over 85% of dry eye syndrome cases are caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). This occurs due to either the obstruction or malfunction of the meibomian glands. When they don’t work properly, they don’t produce enough oil in the tear film, so tears evaporate more quickly. An insufficient or absent lipid layer can cause tears to evaporate 16x faster.

Other causes of dry eye may include:

• Ageing
• Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)
• Dry environment/pollution
• Preservatives

 

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

• A gritty or sandy sensation
• Feeling like there is something in your eye
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Blurred vision
• Redness
• Excessive watering

 

Factors Affecting Dry Eye Syndrome

Demographics & Ageing

Dry eye is more prevalent in certain demographic groups, including women, individuals of Asian ethnic background, and those aged over 50. Ageing is often a natural contributor, with reduced tear production and less effective eyelid spreading as common symptoms. The meibomian glands, crucial for tear production, may also become less efficient over time, leading to conditions like posterior blepharitis.

💡 You can learn more about Blepharitis in our guide: What is BlephEx Treatment and Is It Worth It? Here.

Gender & Hormonal Influencers

Women, due to hormonal changes, may be at a higher risk of dry eye. Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as during menopause, pregnancy, or whilst using contraceptives, can exacerbate symptoms. We advise individuals experiencing such changes to seek tailored guidance as soon as possible.

Medications & Health Conditions

Certain medications or underlying health issues may impact the tear film, increasing the risk of dry eye. It’s essential to discuss any relevant medications or health concerns with your optometrist for a comprehensive understanding of your eye health.

Lifestyle & Environmental Factors

Several lifestyle and environmental factors can elevate the risk of dry eye. These include:

• Wearing Contact Lenses: Contact lens wearers may be more susceptible to dry eye symptoms.
• Low Blink Rate: If you have a low blink rate, you may experience a higher risk of dry eyes.
• Abnormal Eyelid Position: An abnormal eyelid position can contribute to dry eye discomfort.
• Laser Eye Surgery: If you have undergone laser eye surgery, you may also be at a slightly increased risk.
• Computer Work: If you look at computer screens for a long time without a break, you might be more susceptible to dry eye syndrome.

 

How To Relieve Dry Eye Syndrome

After a dry eye consultation with us, we’ll provide tailored advice for effective management. Given the chronic nature of dry eye, ongoing treatment may be necessary. There are five main ways to reduce the symptoms of dry eye:

Maintain Clean Eyelids

• Avoid using makeup, especially eyeliner on the inner edge, as it may block meibomian glands.
• Clean eyelid edges near lashes, moving from inside to outside, to prevent gland blockages.

 

Consider Your Environment

• Be mindful of environments that may exacerbate dry eye, such as high temperatures and air conditioning.
• Adjust central heating to a lower temperature and avoid draughts to slow tear evaporation.
• Wear wraparound glasses on windy days and steer clear of smoky atmospheres.
• Take regular breaks from computer-based work.

 

Use Eye Lubricants (such as drops)

• Choose from drops, gels, or ointments to provide extra moisture to your eyes.
• Consider thicker gels or ointments for longer-lasting relief, especially at night.
• Opt for preservative-free lubricants if you use them frequently.
• Explore sprays for quick replenishment of the oily tear layer to reduce evaporation.

 

Address Tear Drainage

• Prevent tears from draining away by having punctum plugs fitted in the lower eyelids.
• Consult your optometrist for advice on this treatment, which can be adjusted or removed if needed.

 

*NEW* IPL Treatment At Opticare Newark

At our Opticare Newark Practice, we’ve recently installed a new form of treatment for dry eye syndrome.

Introducing OptiLIGHT, the first and only FDA-approved, gold standard IPL machine.

OptiLIGHT is a light-based treatment that uses precise, intense, broad-spectrum light to address signs of dry eye syndrome due to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The treatment targets inflammation, one of the key underlying factors in MGD.

Each treatment takes about 15 minutes, and patients can see results in just 4 sessions.

For more information, click here to go to our OptiLight Dry Eye Therapy page.

 

If your eyes often feel itchy, gritty, or irritated, it’s not something you have to simply put up with. Dry Eye Syndrome is a common but treatable condition, especially when the root cause is addressed. While traditional treatments like eye drops can help manage symptoms, they don’t always resolve the underlying issue.

That’s where modern options like Intense Pulsed Light therapy come in. By improving the function of the oil glands and reducing inflammation, IPL offers a more targeted, longer-lasting approach to relief.

If you’re experiencing ongoing discomfort, a professional assessment from Opticare Opticians can help determine the best treatment plan. Get in contact with our team today.