What’s Irritating My Eyes?

Allergies: Certain allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds, dust, pet dander, and mold spores can cause allergic conjunctivitis, leading to irritated eyes.

Dry Eyes: Inadequate production of tears or an imbalance in the tear film composition can result in dry eyes. This can be due to various factors such as aging, certain medications, environmental conditions (dry air, wind), contact lens use, or underlying medical conditions.

Digital Eye Strain: Prolonged use of digital devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones can cause digital eye strain. Symptoms may include eye irritation, dryness, and redness due to reduced blinking and excessive screen time.

Environmental Irritants: Exposure to pollutants like smoke, dust, chemicals, and air pollution can irritate your eyes. Additionally, certain beauty products, such as eye makeup or harsh cleansers, may also cause irritation.

Foreign Objects: Small particles like sand, dust, eyelashes, or even tiny insects can enter your eye, causing discomfort and irritation until removed.

Eyelid Problems: Conditions affecting your eyelids, such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), styes, or trichiasis (ingrown eyelashes), can cause eye irritation and discomfort.

Contact Lens Complications: Improper use, poor lens hygiene, or extended wear of contact lenses may result in eye irritation, redness, and discomfort.

Infections: Viral or bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis ("pink eye"), can cause redness, itching, and irritation in the eyes.

Medical Conditions: Certain systemic medical conditions, like thyroid issues, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders, may have eye irritation as a symptom.

If you experience ongoing or severe eye irritation, it is essential to consult with an eye care professional (optometrist or ophthalmologist) for proper diagnosis and treatment.