Why Are My Eyes Dry and Itchy All of A Sudden?

Dry eyes and itchy eyes can be a real annoyance and lead to problems like redness and sensitivity to light when left untreated. But what could be causing a sudden uptick in symptoms? And more importantly, what can you do to ease the discomfort?

The professionals at Family Vision Care have experience helping patients find relief from a common but frustrating condition called dry eye syndrome. Below, optometrist Dr. Daxx Dunn reviews possible causes of sudden eye dryness, as well as some tips for managing symptoms in Franklin, TN.

What is dry eye syndrome, and what are the symptoms?

Tears are an important part of keeping our eyes healthy and comfortable. They lubricate the eye, wash away debris, and protect the surface of the eye from irritants. Dry eye syndrome means your eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to symptoms like dryness, stinging, burning, redness, and increased sensitivity to light.

What are the possible causes of dry eye syndrome?

Many factors can contribute to chronic dry and itchy eyes in Franklin, TN, including:

• Age: Our eyes may produce fewer tears as we get older

• Hormone changes: Pregnancy and menopause often lead to hormone fluctuations that cause eye dryness

• Computer use: Prolonged use of digital devices is an increasingly common factor in dry eye syndrome

• Environment: Dry air, smoke, and wind can generate dry eyes or worsen current symptoms

• Medications: Some medications, like antidepressants, list dry eye as a side effect

• Eye diseases or injuries: Conditions like keratoconus cause dry eyes due to an irregularly shaped cornea

• Medical conditions: Certain health conditions, like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, increase your risk of developing dry eye syndrome

Can dry eyes be treated at home?

It depends on the cause of your dry eyes and the severity of your symptoms. If the reason for your condition is related to computer use, you may improve eye comfort by making small but significant lifestyle changes. Try taking more breaks and spending less time on your phone or laptop. However, if the root cause is related to a health condition, you may require more extensive treatment from a specialist.

How can Family Vision Care help with my dry eyes?

Patients with dry and itchy eyes should meet with Dr. Dunn or a member of our trained eye care team for solutions. We begin by performing an eye exam to determine the root cause of your problem. Patients with mild to moderate cases of dry eye syndrome could benefit from prescription or nonprescription artificial tears, while severe cases may require a procedure called a punctal occlusion.

A punctal occlusion aims to plug up tear ducts, so natural tears stay within the eye for longer. This minor procedure can be done in a short period with little to no discomfort. Patients with questions about this procedure or eye dryness, in general, are encouraged to call our office for an assessment.

Increase your eye comfort

Dry and itchy eyes can interrupt your day-to-day activities and make you feel less than comfortable. If you struggle with these symptoms, make an appointment with Family Vision Care at our office in Franklin, TN. Optometrist Dr. Daxx Dunn is proud to have helped countless individuals finally find relief and get back to their lives in comfort.