Burning Eyes: Causes, Types & Prevention

Burning eyes have many possible causes. One of the most common is exposure to environmental pollutants such as tobacco smoke, smog, or dust. The chemicals in household cleaning solvents, such as bleach, soap, and shampoo, can cause eye burns.

Chlorine in swimming pools can also burn your eyes. Extremes of dry or cold air can also cause eye burns. Wearing your contact lenses for a long time can burn your eyes.

Symptoms of Burning Eyes

• Redness: The whites of the eyes may appear pink or bloodshot.
• Itching or irritation: Often associated with allergic reactions or dry eyes.
• Watery eyes: Excessive tears in response to dryness or irritation.
• Dryness or gritty sensation: Feels like there's sand or debris in the eyes.
• Blurred vision: Temporary vision disturbances due to irritation or tearing.
• Light sensitivity (photophobia): Discomfort or squinting in bright lights.
• Eye discharge: Yellow or green discharge may suggest an infection.
• Swelling around the eyes: Eyelids or skin around the eyes may become puffy.
• Pain or discomfort when blinking: Can result from inflammation or dryness.
• Crusting on eyelashes: Common in bacterial infections like blepharitis.

If burning eyes are persistent or accompanied by severe pain, vision changes, or discharge, it's important to consult an eye care professional.

Causes of Burning Eyes

• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids caused by a blocked sebaceous gland. Symptoms include watery eyes, peeling, light sensitivity, and eyelash loss.
• Dry Eyes: Poor lubrication, leading to redness, mucus, and eyestrain. Causes include wind, smoke, allergies, and certain medications or medical conditions.
• Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation, which can result in burning eyes. Your eyes may react to airborne allergens, such as pollen or animal dander, or to localized allergens, like makeup and moisturizers.
• Snow Blindness (Photokeratitis): UV overexposure causes eye burns, redness, headaches, and temporary vision loss.
• Ocular Rosacea: Inflammation around the eyes, sometimes linked to skin rosacea or eyelash mites.
• Pterygium (Surfer's Eye): A benign growth on the eyeball that may burn or feel like a foreign object. Surgical removal is possible.
• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Conjunctivitis can be caused by allergies or infection with bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.
• Eye Fatigue: Caused by screen exposure or walking in dry air, leading to double vision, watery or dry eyes, and light sensitivity.
• Upper respiratory tract infections: Infections such as the flu or a common cold can also cause eye irritation.

When to Visit a Doctor

Burning eyes can be uncomfortable, but sometimes they may be a sign of something more serious. You should see a doctor right away if you experience:

• Eye pain or excessive sensitivity to light
• Eye discharge or blurred vision
• Eye floaters or flashes of light
• Double vision or unexpected visual changes
• Burning eyes lasting more than a few days

It's always best to get checked if you're unsure. Your eyes are too important to take chances with!

Seek medical attention immediately if you have burning eyes accompanied by bleeding or pus-like discharge from the eyes, or if you have a sudden change in vision, severe eye pain, or sensitivity to light.

Diagnosis of Burning Eyes

A physician will take your medical history and ask about the timing and nature of your symptoms. They will also examine your eyes for irregularities and may use eye drops to check tear flow and moisture. Reviewing current medications is also essential as some can cause or worsen burning eyes.

Treatment of Burning Eyes

Treatment for burning eyes varies depending on the cause. In many cases, the combustion goes away on its own when you move away from the irritant. In other cases, using over-the-counter artificial tears or antihistamines can relieve burning eyes.

• Chemical Burns: Immediately rinse the eye and have it pH tested. May use tools to keep eyelids open.
• Thermal Burns: Cool the eye tissue with rinsing and cold compresses. Pain management and antibiotics may be required.
• Tear Duct Damage: Artificial tears or ointments may be prescribed.
• Follow-Up: A vision test and referral to an eye doctor for long-term care.

If you have conjunctivitis caused by bacteria, your healthcare provider may prescribe eye drops or antibiotic ointment.

Prevention of Burning Eyes

• Limit screen time using the 20-20-20 rule
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect from UV rays and dust
• Maintain good eye hygiene and avoid touching your eyes
• Stay hydrated to preserve natural moisture
• Use a humidifier in dry environments
• Keep makeup and contacts clean
• Take regular breaks during long work sessions
• Ensure proper lighting in reading/work areas
• Use protective gear when handling harsh chemicals

Home Remedies for Burning Eyes

• Apply cool compresses to soothe itching
• Apply warm compresses to soften scabs and clean with baby shampoo
• Use artificial tears 4-6 times a day
• Avoid allergens like pets