If you’ve ever noticed a burning sensation in your eyes, you know just how distracting and sometimes painful it can be. While it’s easy to blame dry air or screen time, burning eyes can actually be caused by a range of issues, from dry eye syndrome to allergies or even infections. Understanding what’s behind your symptoms is important, because the right treatment depends on the right diagnosis.
 

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. This lack of adequate lubrication can lead to symptoms like:

• A burning or stinging sensation

• Grittiness or the feeling of something in the eye

• Redness

• Blurred vision

• Sensitivity to light

Factors such as age, certain medications, hormonal changes, meibomian gland dysfunciton, and environmental conditions can increase your risk of developing dry eye syndrome.
 

Other Common Causes of Burning Eyes

While dry eye is a frequent culprit, burning eyes can be caused by several other conditions, including:

• Allergies: Airborne allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander can cause inflammation and irritation, leading to burning, itching, and watery eyes.

• Eye Infections: Conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) can cause redness, burning, and discharge. Bacterial or viral infections require different treatments, so an accurate diagnosis is important.

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to smoke, wind, or strong chemicals can irritate the delicate tissues of your eyes and result in a burning sensation.

• Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods or improper lens hygiene can lead to discomfort, burning, and even infection.

• Digital Eye Strain: Spending hours on screens can reduce blink rate and tear production, contributing to burning and tired eyes.

• Blepharitis: This common condition involves inflammation of the eyelids, which can make your eyes feel irritated and burn, especially in the morning.
 

When to See an Eye Doctor

If you experience persistent burning, pain, significant changes in vision, or discharge, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying problem that needs professional attention.

Your optometrist can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms. Identifying the root issue is essential for effective treatment, whether that means targeted dry eye therapies like IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) or RF (Radiofrequency) treatments, allergy management, or another personalized approach designed for your needs.
 

Ready to Soothe Your Burning Eyes?

Burning eyes are a sign that something may be affecting your eye health, and it’s not always easy to tell what the cause is on your own. From dry eye syndrome to allergies or other conditions, getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward real relief.

If you’re experiencing burning eyes, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Optikos Optometry to find best treatment to restore your eye comfort and protect your vision. Visit our office in Los Angeles, California, or call (213) 642-3200 to book an appointment today.