How to Know If You Have Dry Eye: Key Signs to Watch For

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough quality tears to keep them lubricated. This leads to discomfort and other vision-related issues. Knowing the signs of dry eye is important for identifying the condition early.
 

Below are the key symptoms you should watch for if you suspect dry eye.
 

Constant Dryness in the Eyes

One of the most common signs of dry eye is a persistent feeling of dryness. This occurs because your eyes are not making enough moisture to keep them hydrated. The dryness can worsen after long periods of reading or staring at screens.
 

It is often more noticeable in air-conditioned or windy environments. If your eyes feel dry most of the day, this is a clear sign of dry eye.
 

Gritty or Foreign Body Sensation

A gritty sensation in the eyes is a frequent symptom of dry eye. It can feel like sand or dust is trapped under your eyelids, even when nothing is there. This discomfort is due to the lack of adequate lubrication on the eye’s surface.
 

This gritty feeling tends to worsen when blinking or focusing on tasks like driving. The sensation can persist throughout the day, causing irritation.
 

Eye Redness and Irritation

Another symptom of dry eye is redness in the eyes. Your eyes may look bloodshot, especially after exposure to dry air or bright lights. The lack of moisture can make the eye’s surface inflamed, leading to redness. This often comes with a burning or stinging sensation that worsens with irritation.
 

Excessive Tearing

Although it might sound contradictory, dry eye can cause excessive tearing. This happens when the eyes try to compensate for the dryness by overproducing tears. However, these tears are often of poor quality and do not relieve the discomfort.
 

Sensitivity to Light

People with dry eye often experience sensitivity to light, known as photophobia. Bright indoor or outdoor lighting can cause discomfort or even pain. You may find yourself squinting more often in daylight or needing to dim indoor lights.
 

This sensitivity can worsen as your eyes become drier throughout the day. It is a common issue that can affect daily activities like driving or reading.
 

Blurred Vision

Dry eye can also lead to blurred vision. The lack of moisture on the eye’s surface can make your vision appear cloudy or unclear. This symptom often fluctuates, becoming more pronounced after prolonged focus on screens or books. Blinking might temporarily clear the blurriness, but it tends to return quickly.
 

Difficulty Wearing Contact Lenses

Dry eye can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable and difficult. Many people with dry eye find that their eyes feel irritated soon after putting in their contacts. The discomfort can increase throughout the day, forcing you to remove your lenses earlier than planned.
 

Dry eye can also cause your lenses to shift or become less effective at correcting your vision. You may need to switch to glasses or use special drops for relief.
 

Mucus in or Around the Eyes

Stringy mucus is another less common symptom of dry eye. This mucus can form in or around your eyes, contributing to irritation. It often appears in the morning or after periods of dryness. The mucus can make your eyes feel sticky or gritty, adding to the discomfort. Removing it offers only temporary relief, as it often reappears later in the day.
 

When to See an Eye Care Professional

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to see an eye care professional. Early treatment can prevent dry eye from worsening and help maintain your eye health. Left untreated, dry eye can lead to more severe complications, including vision problems.
 

For more key signs to watch for, visit Dr. Jodi Shepard, O.D., at our office in Hayward, California. Call (510) 921-5242 to book an appointment today.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-dry-eye