When your eyes are burning or feel gritty, it may be a sign of dry eyes. In most instances, dryness is a transient problem that is easily corrected with self-care. If your eyes feel dry constantly, there may be other underlying problems that need treatment.

Humidity And Allergies

Changes in the weather or your environment can frequently cause dry eyes. The problem may be the humidity in your environment, whether it is your specific environment or changes in the weather. When there is not enough moisture in the air, the environment will rob moisture from your skin, eyes, and sinuses, leading to irritation. Adding a humidifier can usually offset the problem, especially if it is during the cooler months when the heater is on. Allergies can cause similar problems, which may be directly caused by seasonal or environmental allergies or as a byproduct of the antihistamines you use. Switching antihistamines from those used for immediate relief to ones designed for daily use might help. Adding retail eye drops is another option. You can use ones specifically formulated for allergies if this is the problem; otherwise, artificial tears are a better option.

Chronic Dry Eye

Chronic dry eye can be caused by various reasons, but may be a natural occurrence as you age. Over time, you may produce less tears or the quality of your tears can lessen. Speaking with an eye doctor can help you determine the exact cause of chronic dry eye and the appropriate treatments. Sometimes prescription treatments are necessary which can enhance your tear production or add artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated. This is generally the preferred method if you simply do not produce enough tears. Some people are producing enough tears, but they do not remain in the eyes long enough to be effective. In this instance, creating a blockage in the tear ducts can be used to hold the tears in your eyes longer.

Autoimmune Conditions

People with autoimmune diseases have an increased risk of of developing chronic dry eyes. Some autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, are known for affecting almost any organ system in the body, and the eyes are no exception. People with autoimmune diseases are more likely to develop additional autoimmune diseases, such as Sjogren's syndrome, which targets any of the mucous-secreting glands. Typically, people with Sjogren's notice problems with more than dryness in the eyes; they also develop dry mouth because the salivary glands are targeted by the immune system. Treating dry eyes related to autoimmune conditions requires management of the underlying condition.

Most instances of dry eyes can be improved with artificial tears, antihistamines, and/or a humidifier. When these self-care strategies are not effective, speaking with an eye doctor can help you determine the underlying cause and manage the condition. For more information, contact clinics like Quality Eye Care.