Burning or stinging
Your eyes may feel irritated, sore, or uncomfortable.
Understanding your symptoms
Dry eye symptoms can show up in different ways.
Dry eye may cause more than a dry feeling. Symptoms can include irritation,
burning, grittiness, redness, watery eyes, or vision that fluctuates.
Symptoms vary from person to person.
Common signs
What you might notice
These symptoms can have different causes. An eye-care professional can evaluate your eyes and help determine what may be contributing.
Gritty or scratchy feeling
You may feel as though something is in your eye.
Redness or itching
The eyes may look red or feel itchy and irritated.
Watery eyes
Excess tearing can sometimes occur along with dry eye symptoms.
Fluctuating or blurry vision
Vision may become temporarily blurry or vary during the day.
Eye fatigue or contact lens discomfort
Some people notice tired eyes or less comfort while wearing contact lenses.
A surprising symptom
Why might dry eyes water?
Watery eyes can happen alongside dry eye. Irritation on the eye surface
may trigger extra tearing, even when the tear film is not providing
steady comfort.
When to seek an evaluation
Persistent symptoms are worth discussing
If dryness, redness, irritation, or fluctuating vision keeps returning or interferes with daily activities, contact an eye-care professional. An eye examination can help assess possible causes and appropriate next steps.
- Note when symptoms happen and what seems to affect them.
- Bring a list of medicines and eye products you use.
- Ask what evaluation or treatment options may fit your situation.