Why Are My Eyes Dry When I Wake Up?

Do you wake up after a restful night only to find your eyes dry and gritty? Do you need to blink several times before you see clearly when you wake up? If this is your daily habit, you do not have to live with the discomfort. You can visit your eye doctor to find long-lasting relief. You may have dry eye syndrome or an ocular condition that can affect your vision and eye health. Find out why your eyes feel dry when you wake up.

Clogged Oil Glands

The meibomian glands along your eyelids produce oil for the eye's tear film. The oil helps to prevent the quick evaporation of tears. Sometimes, the glands become clogged or inflamed, a condition known as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). If your eyes are dry when you wake up, you could have MGD, the leading cause of dry eye syndrome. Applying a warm compress each night before sleep can help relieve the symptoms.

Damaged Tear Film

The eye is covered by a protective tear film. The tears help to keep the eyes healthy, clean, and lubricated. When the tear film is damaged, you can develop dry eye syndrome. The condition occurs when the lacrimal gland fails to make enough tears or the tears evaporate too fast due to inadequate oil. If you have dry eye, your eye doctor can recommend treatment based on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms.

Partially Open Eyelids

The eyelids close during sleep, keeping the tear film in place. Closed eyelids prevent tear evaporation, which is why you need to blink when awake. If you wake up with dry eyes, maybe you sleep with your eyes partially open, a condition known as nocturnal lagophthalmos. The condition may occur if you have had jaw or face surgery or a stroke. Individuals with Bell’s palsy, Grave’s disease, or Ramsey Hunt syndrome may also sleep with partially open eyelids.

Certain Medications

Your dry eye symptoms may be due to certain medications. If you have a certain health condition and take medications, they may be responsible for your morning dry eyes. Many common medications can cause eye dryness, including allergy and blood pressure medications. Some over-the-counter pain relievers, antidepressants, and diuretics can also cause dry eye. Talk to your doctor and find out whether you can get alternatives.

Common Indoor Allergens

Your indoor environment could be responsible for your dry eyes. Low humidity from your heating or air conditioning system can affect your eyes. Dust and dander are common indoor allergens that can trigger dry eye symptoms. If you have a new pillow or have adopted a new pet, that could be the reason for your symptoms. Indoor allergens can trigger symptoms, even if you do not have a history of eye allergies.

There are things you can do to keep your eyes from drying out. Using an eye ointment, eyelid scrubs, and a warm compress every night can help. It helps to change your sleeping environment to reduce allergens. Reduce your screen time, especially before you sleep, and use a humidifier to keep the indoor air comfortable. Scheduling regular eye exams will help to keep your eyes healthy.

For more on why your eyes feel dry when you wake up, visit Frame & Focus Eye Care. Our office is in Richmond, Texas. Call (832) 664-7900 to schedule an appointment today. We are also happy to serve the surrounding areas, Greatwood, Rosenberg, Sugar Land, Pecan Grove, Four Corners, Mission Bend, New Territory, Sugar Land.