What Are the Most Common Dry Eye Symptoms?

Dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions affecting people of all ages. While it may sound minor, dry eye can significantly impact your comfort, vision, and overall quality of life if left untreated. Understanding the most common dry eye symptoms can help you recognize when it’s time to seek professional care and protect your long-term eye health.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Healthy tears are essential for keeping the surface of the eye smooth, clear, and comfortable. When tear balance is disrupted, dryness and irritation can follow. 

Dry eye can be caused by many factors, including aging, prolonged screen use, certain medications, environmental conditions, and underlying health issues. Dry eye symptoms can range from mild to severe and may come and go throughout the day.

Burning or Stinging Sensation

Many people with dry eye describe a burning, stinging, or scratchy feeling in their eyes. This discomfort often worsens in dry environments, windy conditions, or after extended screen time.

Gritty or Sandy Feeling

A common symptom of dry eye is the sensation that something is stuck in your eye, even when nothing is there. This gritty feeling can be persistent and frustrating.

Redness and Irritation

Dry eyes often appear red or bloodshot due to inflammation on the surface of the eye. Irritation may increase throughout the day, especially after reading, driving, or computer use.

Blurry or Fluctuating Vision

Dry eye can cause temporary blurred vision that improves after blinking. This happens because an unstable tear film affects how light enters the eye, making vision less clear.

 
Excessive Tearing

While it may seem counterintuitive, watery eyes can actually be a sign of dry eye. When your eyes become too dry, they may overproduce reflex tears, which lack the proper balance to fully lubricate the eye.

Eye Fatigue

Dry eye can make your eyes feel tired or heavy, especially during tasks that require sustained focus. Many patients notice increased eye strain by the end of the day.

Sensitivity to Light

Increased light sensitivity, particularly to bright sunlight or screens, can also be linked to dry eye and ongoing surface irritation.

When Should You See Your Eye Doctor?

Occasional dryness can happen to anyone, but persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. You should schedule an eye exam if:

• Dry eye symptoms last more than a few days

• Over-the-counter eye drops provide little or no relief

• You experience frequent blurry vision or eye pain

• Redness, irritation, or tearing interferes with daily activities

• Symptoms worsen with screen use or contact lens wear

An eye doctor can determine the underlying cause of your dry eye and recommend the most effective treatment options, which may include prescription eye drops, lifestyle changes, in-office therapies, or customized treatment plans.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation at Quality Eye Care

Dry eye symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but they don’t have to be something you simply live with. Recognizing early signs can help you take action before symptoms become more severe. With proper diagnosis and personalized care, dry eye can be effectively managed, helping you maintain clear vision and lasting comfort.

If you’re experiencing ongoing dry eye symptoms, contact Quality Eye Care to schedule a consultation to learn more about treatment options. Visit our office in Jacksonville, Florida, or call (904) 601-1300 to book an appointment today.