GRITTY, SORE EYES
SYMPTOM GUIDE
If you’re experiencing gritty eyes you will likely feel a sensation of having sand or dirt stuck in the eye, even without debris. It can be a symptom of a number of different eye conditions and could also cause eyes to feel sore.
Common causes of gritty, sore eyes associated with dry eye
In many cases, gritty eyes can be a symptom of dry eyes, but it can also be caused by other eye conditions and lifestyle factors too. Here are just some of the most common causes that may be causing gritty, sore eyes.
DRY EYE
Dry eye typically affects both eyes and can result in gritty, tired and sore eyes. In some cases eyes might also be watery and slightly red. Common causes of dry eye can include eyes not producing enough tears or tears evaporating too quickly.
Other conditions that may cause dry eye resulting in a gritty sensation can include:
Blepharitis
MGD
CONTACT LENS WEAR
If you have already been diagnosed with dry eye this can impact the tolerability of wearing contact lenses often resulting in a gritty sensation. Sore eyes when wearing contact lenses can be primarily due to dry eye, as insufficient lubrication can make the lenses feel uncomfortable. This can happen when wearing lenses for longer periods, which can contribute to drying out the eye surface. It is always important to source and have your contact lenses fitted by an eye care professional, we would also recommend regular check-up to ensure your lenses remain appropriate for your eyes over time.
On rare occasions it is possible for debris to become trapped under the contact lenses this can also result in a gritty sensation.
You should also consider the contact lens care solution as this may also impact the surface of the eye and cause a gritty sensation, particularly if this solution is preserved.
ALLERGIES
Allergy prone eyes may also result in a gritty itchy sensation, particularly in allergic conjunctivitis. This might also be accompanied by symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose. Allergies that may cause the eyes to feel gritty eyes are often triggered by environmental irritants, like pollen, pet dander and dust.
DAY TO DAY ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS TO CONSIDER
Wind, heating, air conditioning, make-up removal, diet and lifestyle choices can also impact the surface of the eye causing dry eye and in turn a gritty sensation.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE GRITTY, SORE EYES
Any change to your vision and or eye health should be checked by an eye care professional, but there may be some things that can be done to alleviate the symptom at home, depending on the cause.
Lubricating and hydrating eye drops may help the eyes maintain moisture, reducing the gritty feeling. Thealoz Duo preservative-free eye drops can provide rapid, long-lasting relief for dry, gritty and sore eyes1.
Using a warm compress like Blepha EyeBag can provide long-lasting relief of symptoms like grittiness and tired or sore eyes. It is typically used to provide comfort and relief from symptoms of dry eye associated with MGD, but may also relieve discomfort related to contact lenses worn by patients suffering from dry eye2.
It can be helpful to maintain a good eye care routine, following good eyelid hygiene to care for the delicate skin around the eyes and prevent infection or irritation. If you’re hoping to maintain or improve contact lens hygiene and proper use of contact lenses, consult your eye care professional for advice.
Explore other eye symptoms
Find out more about other eye symptoms below, or visit the Eye Symptom Checker to find out more information.
References:
1. Schmidl D, Schemetterer L, Wltkowska KJ, et al. Cornea (2015): 34(4): 421–6
2. Blepha EyeBag Patient Information Leaflet
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