Burning eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. This article explores the common causes of burning eyes, ranging from dry eye to more serious conditions. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment and relief.
Dry Eyes: A Common Culprit
Dry eyes, a condition where your tear ducts don’t produce enough or the right kind of tears, is a frequent cause of burning eyes. This can occur more often in women and people over 65. Along with burning, dry eyes can cause pain, redness, a gritty feeling, blurred vision, and light sensitivity.
Blepharitis: Eyelid Inflammation
Blepharitis, characterized by inflamed eyelids, can lead to burning eyes. It often presents with flaky, dandruff-like skin at the base of the eyelashes. Redness and swelling of the eyelids are also common symptoms. Blepharitis and dry eye can sometimes occur together.
Eye Allergies: Triggers and Symptoms
Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, happen when irritants like dust, pollen, mold spores, smoke, perfume, or pet dander come into contact with your eyes. Your body releases histamines, causing burning, redness, tearing, swelling, itching, and light sensitivity.
Eye Sunburn: Damage from UV Rays
Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can result in eye sunburn or photokeratitis. This condition can cause burning eyes, light sensitivity, pain, a gritty sensation, watering eyes, halos around lights, and even headaches. Protecting your eyes from the sun is vital to prevent this.
Ocular Rosacea: Linked to Skin Condition
Ocular rosacea is an inflammatory condition affecting the eyelids, often occurring in people with rosacea, a skin condition causing facial redness. Symptoms include burning eyes, pain, light sensitivity, bloodshot eyes, itching, and a foreign body sensation.
Pterygium and Pinguecula: Growths on the Eye
Pterygium and pinguecula are growths on the conjunctiva (the white part of the eye) or cornea (the clear front part of the eye). They typically appear near the nose and are thought to be caused by a combination of dry eyes and UV exposure. These growths can cause burning, itching, and swelling, in addition to their visible presence.
In conclusion, burning eyes can stem from various causes. While some are minor irritations, others may indicate more serious conditions. If you experience persistent burning eyes, it’s important to consult an eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can determine the underlying cause and recommend the best course of action for relief and long-term eye health.
