Do you ever feel like there’s sand in your eyes but there’s nothing there? This unpleasant sensation is referred to as “gritty eyes,” and it can be a sign of several underlying conditions. While it’s tempting to brush it off and hope it disappears on its own, it’s important to seek professional care if the feeling persists. In this blog, we explore some common causes of gritty eyes and how you can find relief.
Common causes of gritty eyes
To find relief, it’s important to first understand why your eyes feel gritty. There are several reasons this sensation might occur:
Dry eye syndrome
A sandy feeling in your eyes is often due to dry eye syndrome. This happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. Aging, spending too much time in front of screens, and environmental factors can all play a part in making this condition worse.
Allergies
If you’re allergic to things like pollen, dust, or pet dander, you might notice your eyes feeling gritty. Allergies can cause inflammation and swelling, making your eyes feel like they have tiny particles in them.
Blepharitis
This is when the edges of your eyelids get inflamed, often because of bacterial infections or skin conditions like dandruff. Blepharitis can cause a crusty buildup along your eyelashes, which can contribute to a gritty sensation.
Conjunctivitis
Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is when the thin membrane covering your eye and eyelids gets inflamed. It can be caused by infections, allergies, or irritants, leading to redness, itching, and a sandy feeling in the eyes.
Foreign bodies
Sometimes, the gritty feeling is exactly what it seems—tiny particles or debris in your eyes. While blinking usually helps, persistent discomfort might need professional attention. At Pittsburgh Primary Eyecare, we provide emergency eye care services in Pittsburgh and are ready to assist if you feel like something is stuck in your eye.
Contact lens issues
Not taking care of your contact lenses properly, like wearing them too long or not cleaning them, can irritate your eyes and make them feel gritty.
Treatment for gritty eyes
If you struggle with gritty eyes, these strategies can be effective for finding relief:
- Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can quickly relieve dry eyes by keeping them lubricated. They’re especially helpful if you spend a lot of time on screens.
- Warm compresses: If you have blepharitis, applying a warm compress to your eyes can help loosen crusts on your eyelids and improve oil gland function, reducing irritation.
- Allergy management: If allergies are causing the problem, try to avoid known allergens. Using antihistamines or allergy eye drops can also help ease symptoms.
- Proper eye hygiene: Regularly cleaning your eyelids with a gentle cleanser can help prevent blepharitis. And always make sure your contact lenses are clean and replaced as recommended.
- Blink regularly: Focusing on screens can make you blink less often, drying out your eyes. Try to blink more frequently and take breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Consult an eye care professional: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s best to visit an eye care professional. They can help diagnose any underlying issues and suggest the best treatments, such as prescription medications or specialized contact lenses.
In conclusion, when artificial tears and home remedies fail to provide relief from gritty eyes, it’s crucial to see a professional. In many cases, chronic dry eye is the culprit, and your symptoms won’t go away without advanced treatment. At Pittsburgh Primary Eyecare, we’re ready to help with comprehensive dry eye treatment in Pittsburgh, including the cutting-edge Lipiflow® thermal pulsation system. If you’re looking for lasting relief and a way to keep your eyes feeling their best, we’d love to see you. Schedule an appointment with our friendly, experienced team in Pittsburgh, and let’s work together to get your eyes back to feeling comfortable and healthy.
