Philip Walsh - Why do my eyes sting?

Why do my eyes sting?
It is not uncommon for people to occasionally suffer from the pain of stinging eyes and there are a variety of factors that can cause eye pain.
Here is a look at some of the more common causes of stinging eyes.


What is dry eye?
Those suffering from dry eye are unable to produce enough tears to keep the eye comfortable. This can result in stinging, itchy eyes and a gritty or scratchy feeling.

If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended you see your local optometrist as dry eye can damage the surface of your eyeball if left untreated for too long.

People with this condition may find it hard to wear contact lenses and environments such as supermarkets and air-conditioned offices may also present problems.

Dry eye can affect anyone but there are some factors that can increase the likelihood of this condition, such as ageing, menopause, use of certain medications like oral contraceptives, antidepressants, antihistamines, beta blockers and other medical conditions like arthritis.

Environmental factors can also trigger this condition, including dry air and wind.

If you suffer from dry eye make sure you avoid irritants like cigarette smoke and dust.


What is eye strain?
If you have sore, burning or itchy eyes, it could be the result of eye strain. This is not a serious condition and it should be easy to resolve by making simple changes to your routine, such as taking breaks when using digital equipment like computers and smartphones.

People usually blink less frequently when they use these devices which can put strain on the eyes.


My eyes sting after using multipurpose solution?
Some contact lens wearers report a stinging sensation when they use a multipurpose solution. If this is the case, try switching to a preservative free solution that might not be as likely to cause a reaction.

If you have any concerns at all, the best thing to do is to book in an appointment to see a professional optometrist who will be able to advise the best options for you. Visit www.specsavers.co.nz for more information.