Is it a riddle of restless nights or a puzzle of perplexing mornings? As the sun rises, do your eyes awaken parched, yearning for relief? Delve into the enigmatic realm of waking up with dry eyes, where answers await discovery.
Dry eye disease (DED) affects a significant portion of the global population, with prevalence ranging from 5 to 50 percent. In the United States, approximately 6.8 percent of adults (around 16.4 million people) have been diagnosed with DED, highlighting the widespread impact of this condition on ocular health.
Unveil the hidden truths with Easy Peasy Skincare and reclaim the joy of refreshed mornings. The solution lies within your grasp, as the allure of revitalizing hydration beckons you forward.
In this blog, we will delve into the waking up with dry eyes symptoms, root causes, treatment and many more.
Stay with us and know what you are searching for!
What Are The Possible Symptoms Of Dry Eyes?
Individuals who experience who is waking up with dry eyes upon waking may encounter a range of symptoms, including:
- Redness of the whites of the eyes
- Stinging or burning sensations
- Itchy or scratchy feelings
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Stringy mucus near the eyes
- Grittiness or a foreign body sensation
- Eye fatigue or discomfort
- Excessive tearing as a result of the eyes’ response to dryness
Images Of Waking Up With Dry Eyes:
7 Reasons Why Am I Waking Up With Dry Eyes:
Morning dry eyes can be bothersome and affect your overall eye health and comfort throughout the day. Understanding what causes waking up with dry eyes can help you find relief and take appropriate measures to protect your eye health. Here are seven common reasons why you may experience dry eyes upon waking up in the morning.
1. Nocturnal Lagophthalmos:
This condition occurs when you are unable to fully close your eyelids during sleep. It can be caused by factors such as incomplete lid closure, head or jaw trauma, or Bell’s palsy.
2. Insufficient Tear Production at Night:
If you don’t produce enough tears while sleeping, you may wake up with dry eyes. This can be influenced by factors like age, medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, medication side effects, environmental conditions, damaged eyelids, or complications from eye surgery.
3. Thyroid-Related Eye Symptoms:
Hyperthyroidism or other thyroid-related eye conditions can affect your ability to close your eyelids during sleep. As a result, tears evaporate more easily, leading to increased dry eye symptoms upon waking.
4. Medications:
Certain medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, can contribute to dry eyes. Examples include antihistamines and decongestants, chemotherapy medications, antidepressants, and acne medications.
5. Aging:
Dry eye becomes more common as you age, as tear production naturally declines. Individuals over the age of 50 are at a higher risk of developing dry eye.
6. Excessive Computer Use Before Bedtime:
Staring at a computer screen for extended periods can reduce your blinking frequency. This decreased blinking leads to faster evaporation of tears, resulting in dry eyes.
7. Vitamin A Deficiency:
Insufficient levels of vitamin A can disrupt tear production and contribute to dry eye symptoms. Including foods rich in vitamin A, such as eggs, carrots, fish, spinach, broccoli, and bell peppers, in your diet may help alleviate dry eye.
Dry Eye Waking Up With Crusty Eyes Is Normal?
It is common to find crusty residue in the corners and along the lashes of your eyes upon waking up. This residue can vary in appearance, ranging from yellow and hard to clear and sticky, or even thin and watery like tears.
How Can I Treat My Morning Dry Eyes?
To effectively treat morning dry eye, it’s essential to identify the underlying cause and tailor the treatment accordingly.
Here are some potential approaches to managing morning dry eyes: how to prevent waking up with dry eyes.
Use Sleeping Masks:
Using a sleeping mask can help create a barrier and protect your eyes from excessive evaporation during sleep.
Lubricating Eye Drops:
Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops or artificial tears can provide immediate relief by adding moisture to the eyes. These can be used regularly or as needed throughout the day and before bed.
Eyelid Weights:
In cases of nocturnal lagophthalmos, specialized eyelid weights can be prescribed by an eye care professional. These weights help to ensure complete eyelid closure during sleep, preventing excessive dryness.
Ointment Application:
Applying a thin layer of ointment to the lower eyelid just before bed can help retain moisture and prevent dryness throughout the night.
Use a Humidifier:
Sleeping in a room with a humidifier can help maintain a moisture-rich environment, reducing the likelihood of dry eyes during sleep.
Consult an Eye Care Professional:
If the symptoms persist or are severe, it is advisable to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye exam. They can assess the underlying cause, evaluate your medication list, and provide personalized treatment recommendations.
How to prevent waking up with dry eyes with Home remedies?
Incorporating home remedies into your routine can provide temporary relief and improve overall eye comfort. Here are a few home remedies that may help alleviate dry eye symptoms:
- Warm compress
- Blinking exercises
- Hydration
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Avoiding irritants
- Eye rest and protection
Final Thoughts:
Don’t let morning dry eyes dampen your day. Take charge of your eye health and wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the world.
By understanding the causes, seeking proper treatment, and incorporating preventive measures, you can bid farewell to the discomfort of waking up with dry eyes.
Embrace the revitalizing power of a good night’s sleep and greet each morning with bright, rejuvenated eyes. Experience the difference and see the world through refreshed eyes, ready to seize every opportunity that comes your way.
Say goodbye to morning dry eyes and hello to a brighter, more vibrant day. Your eyes deserve it.