Burning Eyes: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of burning eyes?

Burning eyes can be a symptom of various conditions, and the specific symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms of burning eyes include:

1. Burning Sensation: A persistent feeling of heat or burning in one or both eyes.
2. Redness: The eyes may appear red or bloodshot.
3. Watery Eyes: Burning eyes can sometimes lead to increased tear production, causing watery eyes.
4. Blurry Vision: Vision may be temporarily blurred or distorted.
5. Sensitivity to Light: Also known as photophobia, this symptom may accompany burning eyes.
6. Foreign Body Sensation: It may feel like there is something in your eye, even though there isn’t.
7. Itching or Irritation: The eyes may feel itchy or irritated, leading to a desire to rub them.
8. Discharge: There may be a discharge from the eyes, which can be watery, mucous-like, or purulent (containing pus).
9. Pain or Discomfort: In some cases, burning eyes can be accompanied by pain or discomfort, especially when moving the eyes.

If you experience persistent or severe burning eyes, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

What are the causes of burning eyes?

Burning eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Dry Eye Syndrome: Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can lead to dry, irritated, and burning eyes.
2. Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, or other allergens can cause burning, itching, and watery eyes.
3. Eye Strain: Prolonged use of digital devices, reading, or driving can strain the eyes and lead to burning sensations.
4. Environmental Factors: Exposure to smoke, wind, pollution, or dry air can irritate the eyes and cause them to burn.
5. Contact Lenses: Improper use, poor fit, or wearing contact lenses for extended periods can lead to dryness and discomfort in the eyes.
6. Chemical Irritants: Exposure to chemicals such as chlorine in swimming pools, fumes from household cleaners, or makeup can irritate the eyes.
7. Conjunctivitis: Also known as pink eye, this inflammation of the conjunctiva can cause burning, itching, and redness in the eyes.
8. Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can lead to burning, itching, and irritation of the eyes.
9. Corneal Abrasion: A scratch or injury to the cornea can cause pain, redness, and burning in the eyes.
10. Infections: Bacterial or viral infections of the eye, such as keratitis, can cause burning, redness, and discharge.
11. Systemic Conditions: Certain systemic conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders can lead to dry eyes and burning sensations.

If you experience persistent or severe burning eyes, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

What is the treatment for burning eyes?

Treatment for burning eyes depends on the underlying cause. Here are some general approaches that may help alleviate symptoms:

1. Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness and soothe burning eyes. They are available over the counter and can be used as needed.
2. Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the eyes can help stimulate tear production and relieve dryness.
3. Avoiding Irritants: If your burning eyes are due to environmental factors or chemical irritants, try to avoid exposure to these substances.
4. Blinking Exercises: Regularly blinking can help spread tears evenly over the surface of the eyes and prevent dryness.
5. Resting Your Eyes: If eye strain is causing your symptoms, taking breaks from activities that strain your eyes, such as looking at screens, can help.
6. Adjusting Your Environment: Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air or wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and irritants can help.
7. Medicated Eye Drops: If your burning eyes are due to allergies or inflammation, your doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops to reduce symptoms.
8. Treating Underlying Conditions: If your burning eyes are due to an underlying condition such as blepharitis or dry eye syndrome, treating the underlying cause can help alleviate symptoms.
9. Proper Contact Lens Care: If you wear contact lenses, proper cleaning and care can help prevent dryness and irritation.

It’s important to consult with an eye care professional to determine the underlying cause of your burning eyes and receive appropriate treatment.