Have you ever felt like there’s something in your eye even though you can’t see anything? Many of our patients come to us with this complaint, telling us that it feels like there’s sand in their eyes. This sensation is known as “gritty eyes,” and it can be caused by many factors, ranging from underlying eye conditions to environmental factors. One of the most common causes is dry eye, which can lead to a gritty feeling in the eyes and discomfort. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes of gritty eyes and why you may feel like something is stuck in your eye.
Environmental irritants
One of the main reasons why it might feel like there’s something in your eye is due to environmental factors such as dust, pollen, or other foreign particles coming into contact with your eyes. These irritants can cause a gritty sensation and make it feel like there’s something stuck in your eye. Rubbing your eyes excessively or wearing contact lenses for extended periods can also contribute to this feeling.
Dry eye syndrome
Another common cause of that uncomfortable sensation is dry eye syndrome. Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor, leading to dryness, irritation, and that gritty feeling. Factors such as aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, and environmental conditions can all contribute to dry eye. If you frequently experience symptoms such as burning, stinging, redness, or fluctuating vision along with the feeling of having something in your eye, it’s essential to see a dry eye specialist in Tampa for evaluation and treatment.
Underlying conditions
In addition to environmental factors and dry eye syndrome, other underlying conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), conjunctivitis (pink eye), or corneal abrasions can also cause a foreign body sensation in the eyes. It’s important to visit our eye doctor for an eye exam in Tampa to determine the underlying cause and the best course of treatment.
Foreign objects
Sometimes, the sensation of having something in your eye is caused by an eyelash or other foreign object trapped under your eyelid. If you suspect this is the case, you can try flushing your eyes with clean water or a saline solution. If the sensation persists, you should visit an eye doctor who can safely remove the object.
If you constantly feel like there’s something stuck in your eyes or suspect you have dry eye syndrome, I-Care Optical is here to help. Our eye doctor in Tampa specializes in diagnosing and treating dry eye using advanced technologies such as the Eterna™ radiofrequency device and MiBo Thermoflo for meibomian gland dysfunction. We also offer specialty scleral contact lenses to provide long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms. Don’t let gritty eyes interfere with your daily life—schedule an appointment with us today!