What is this?
A dry, burning or gritty sensation can fit with an unstable tear film or irritation of the ocular surface.
SYMPTOM & VISION
Dry eyes
Burning, irritation, fluctuating vision or watery eyes can occur with dry eye.
Possible explanations
- Symptoms may worsen with screens, dry air, air conditioning or contact lenses.
- Some people water more because an irritated eye produces reflex tears.
- Persistent symptoms deserve assessment of the ocular surface and tear film.
What may be assessed?
The eyelids, blink pattern, tear film and contact-lens use may be assessed. Management depends on the cause found.
When to seek urgent help
Severe pain, marked redness, light sensitivity or sudden visual loss is not typical of simple mild dry eye and needs assessment.