You’re just going about your day when you notice it—that gritty, burning feeling in your eyes. Our team at Visionarium Optometry knows it can be surprising when dry eyes show up without warning. This discomfort can interrupt your work, make it hard to focus, and leave you wondering what’s wrong.
The good news is that dry eye is a common experience, and there’s often a straightforward reason behind the condition. Sudden dry eye is frequently linked to simple changes in your environment, daily routine, or overall health.
Signs Your Eyes Feel Dry
You might have dry eye if you notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- A scratchy or stinging sensation
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision
- The feeling that something is in your eye
- Watery eyes—this is your body’s response to the irritation
- Difficulty with comfortable contact lens wear
Common Reasons for Sudden Dry Eye
Sudden dryness often happens because of a shift in your surroundings or habits. A few small factors can make a big difference in how your eyes feel throughout the day.
Your Environment & Daily Habits
Think about what’s around you. The air in planes, deserts, or places with high altitudes is very dry and can affect your eyes. Even a windy day can cause issues. Your daily habits also play a role, like when you spend hours focused on a computer screen (a common cause of digital eye strain) and forget to blink.
Changes to Your Health & Wellness
Sometimes, what happens inside your body shows up in your eyes. New medications like antihistamines or decongestants can lead to dryness. Seasonal allergies are another common factor. Your diet matters, too—a lack of vitamin A or omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
New Products or Routines
A recent change, like a new makeup product or a different brand of contact lenses, can also sometimes be a source of irritation. Even changes like wearing a sleep apnea mask can cause your eyes to dry out while you sleep.
Why You Might Wake Up with Dry Eyes
Environmental factors can irritate your eyes and disrupt the tear film, contributing to the symptoms of dry eye. Common causes include:
- A fan or air conditioner blowing air on your face.
- Sleeping near an open window.
- Indoor heating making the air in your room dry.
- Allergens like dust or pet dander
Simple Ways to Soothe Dry Eyes
You can try a few things at home to help your eyes feel better. These simple adjustments can offer quick relief and help keep your eyes comfortable.
Quick Relief at Home
A few immediate actions can help add moisture back to your eyes and calm irritation.
- Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter eye drops can add much-needed moisture.
- Try a Warm Compress: A warm, damp cloth held over your closed eyes for a few minutes can often help.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your whole body, including your eyes.
- Blink More: Make a conscious effort to blink fully and often, especially during screen time.
Easy Lifestyle Adjustments
Small changes to your space and routine can also make a big difference. Try to position your computer screen below eye level so you don’t have to open your eyes as wide. A humidifier can add moisture to dry indoor air, and wraparound sunglasses can protect your eyes from wind when you go outside.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If you have tried these tips and your eyes still feel dry and irritated, it may be time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Our team at Visionarium Optometry in San Francisco can look for underlying issues and suggest possible treatment options.
