When Your Eyes Won’t Stop Burning: What to Know About Dry Eye

If your eyes constantly feel gritty, irritated, or like they’re begging for relief after just a few hours of screen time, you’re not alone. Dry eye disease affects millions of people across the country, often turning routine activities – like driving, reading, or even enjoying a walk outside – into daily challenges.

At Allied Vision, we offer solutions to help you find lasting relief in Lawrenceville, NJ.

What Is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears – or when the tears they do make aren’t the right quality to keep your eyes lubricated. It’s not just an occasional annoyance. When left untreated, chronic dry eyes can lead to long-term discomfort, blurry vision, and damage to the surface of your eyes.

There are two main types of dry eye disease:

• Aqueous-deficient dry eye – when the tear glands don’t produce enough liquid

• Evaporative dry eye – when the tears evaporate too quickly due to poor oil content, often caused by a condition called Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

Many people experience a combination of both, and treatment often depends on pinpointing the exact cause.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms can range from mild and infrequent to severe and disruptive. Some of the most common signs include:

• A burning or stinging sensation in your eyes

• Feeling like there’s sand or grit in your eyes

• Redness or watering

• Blurry vision or eye fatigue, especially after reading or screen time

• Discomfort when wearing contact lenses

• Sensitivity to light

Not everyone experiences dry eye the same way. Some patients notice sudden flare-ups in specific environments – like during allergy season or when exposed to wind – while others struggle with chronic symptoms throughout the day.

What Causes Dry Eyes?

Dry eye is a complex condition with many potential causes. The most common contributors include:

• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases as we get older

• Hormonal changes: Common during menopause or pregnancy

• Screen time: Reduced blinking while using computers or smartphones

• Environment: Dry, windy, or smoky air can dry out the eyes quickly

• Medications: Some antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure meds contribute to dryness

• Underlying conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis can impact tear production

• Lifestyle habits – like wearing contact lenses too long, not cleaning your lids, or not getting regular eye exams – can also play a role.

Modern Treatment Options for Dry Eyes at Allied Vision

Thanks to advances in eye care, there are now more ways than ever to manage dry eye disease effectively.

Some of the most effective treatments include:

• Artificial tears

• Prescription eye drops

• Lid hygiene and warm compresses

• Punctal plugs

• Meibomian gland expression

• Moisture chamber glasses

If you’ve been using drugstore eye drops with little success, it may be time to investigate other causes. A comprehensive dry eye evaluation with our team can uncover what’s really going on and guide you toward long-term relief.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Eye Disease

Can dry eye disease go away on its own?

Dry eye symptoms may improve temporarily, but chronic dry eye typically doesn’t go away without treatment. Professional care is recommended to manage the condition and prevent long-term damage to your eyes.

What are the best treatments for dry eyes?

Treatment depends on the root cause. Options may include artificial tears, prescription drops, punctal plugs, lid hygiene routines, or advanced in-office treatments. Your optometrist will create a plan tailored to your specific needs.

Is dry eye linked to screen time?

Yes. When staring at screens, we tend to blink less, which causes tears to evaporate faster. This makes screen-related dry eye increasingly common in adults and teens alike.

Can I still wear contact lenses with dry eye?

It depends on the severity of your condition. Some patients need to take a break from contacts or switch to lenses designed for dry eye. Your optometrist can help you choose the best option.

When should I see a doctor for dry eyes?

If you experience persistent symptoms like burning, stinging, blurry vision, or excessive tearing, it’s time to see an eye care professional. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Dry Eye Care in Lawrenceville, NJ

Whether you're experiencing occasional irritation or daily discomfort, dry eye disease doesn’t have to limit your quality of life. Our eye care team at Allied Vision is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatments to help bring your eyes back into balance.

Our compassionate team works with patients of all ages and backgrounds – from young professionals battling screen fatigue to retirees dealing with age-related tear loss. No matter your lifestyle or symptoms, we’re here to listen and create a treatment plan that actually works for you.

With our convenient location in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, we make it easy for New Jersey patients to access high-quality dry eye care close to home.