Dry eye: why your eyes feel gritty and what helps
Gritty, burning or watery eyes may be dry eye disease. Learn the common causes, simple daily habits and the treatments an eye doctor may suggest.
Dry eye happens when your eyes do not make enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. It is very common, especially with long hours on screens and in air-conditioned rooms. It can be uncomfortable and affect daily life, but it can usually be managed well.
Common symptoms
How dry eye feels
People describe a gritty, sandy or burning feeling, redness, tired eyes, blurred vision that clears with blinking, and sensitivity to light. Watery eyes can surprisingly also be a sign, as the eye reacts to dryness by producing reflex tears.
What causes dry eye?
Tear film problems
The tear film has oil, water and mucus layers. Blocked oil glands along the eyelids (meibomian gland dysfunction) are a frequent cause, letting tears evaporate too fast.
Everyday triggers
Screen use reduces blinking. Air-conditioning, wind, contact lenses, some medicines, hormonal changes, ageing and certain health conditions can all make dry eye worse.
Simple habits that help
At work and at home
Take regular screen breaks and blink fully. Position screens slightly below eye level. Avoid air vents blowing on your face and drink enough water. Warm compresses and gentle lid cleaning can help the oil glands work better.
Treatment from your eye doctor
Lubricants and prescription drops
Preservative-free artificial tears are often the first step. For ongoing inflammation, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops.
In-clinic treatments
Other options include treatments to clear blocked eyelid glands and small plugs that keep tears on the eye for longer. An eye examination helps find the cause, so treatment fits your type of dry eye.
Frequently asked questions
Is dry eye serious?
Dry eye is usually not sight-threatening, but severe or untreated dry eye can damage the eye surface. See an eye doctor if symptoms persist.
How often can I use artificial tears?
Preservative-free drops can generally be used as often as needed. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which type suits you.
Can screens cause dry eye?
Screens reduce how often you blink, which can trigger or worsen dry eye symptoms. Regular breaks help.
Medically reviewed by
Datin Dr. Teoh Su Lin
Consultant Ophthalmologist · ISEC KL · reviewed 9 Oct 2026
This article is general information and does not replace a consultation. Every eye is different: please see an eye doctor about your own symptoms and treatment.
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