In today’s digital age, many of us spend countless hours staring at screens, whether for work, study, or leisure. While technology has undoubtedly made our lives more convenient, it has also brought about a common issue: dry and gritty eyes. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it could be a sign that you are suffering from dry eyes, a condition that can affect your overall eye health and quality of life.
Understanding Dry Eyes
Dry eyes occur when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision. They lubricate the eyes, reduce the risk of eye infections, wash away foreign particles, and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear. When tear production and drainage are not in balance, you may experience dry eyes.
Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Some common symptoms of dry eyes include:
- A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Increased eye irritation from smoke or wind
- Eye fatigue
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Periods of excessive tearing followed by very dry eye periods
- Blurred vision, often worsening at the end of the day or after focusing for a prolonged period
Causes of Dry Eyes
Several factors can contribute to dry eyes, including:
- Prolonged Screen Time: Staring at a computer, smartphone, or tablet screen reduces blink rates, which can lead to dry eyes.
- Aging: Tear production tends to diminish with age.
- Environmental Conditions: Exposure to smoke, wind, and dry climates can increase tear evaporation.
- Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can affect tear production.
Why Get a Checkup?
Ignoring dry eyes can lead to complications, including increased risk of eye infections, damage to the surface of your eyes, and decreased quality of life due to discomfort and vision problems. Getting a professional checkup can help identify the underlying cause of your dry eyes and find the right treatment.
Comprehensive Eye Assessment at Chetna Hospital
At Chetna Hospital, the eye care (ophthalmology) department carries out a complete assessment of your eyes, using diagnostic tests to evaluate your symptoms and plan treatment suited to you. Whether your dry eyes are due to environmental factors, prolonged screen use, or underlying health issues, we can help manage and alleviate your symptoms.
Our comprehensive eye assessment includes:
- Detailed patient history and symptom evaluation
- Measurement of tear production and quality
- Examination of the ocular surface and eyelid condition
- Recommendations for lifestyle adjustments and treatments
Arranging an Eye Check-up
If dry, gritty eyes are affecting your daily life, or home measures have not helped after a few weeks, an eye check-up can help. See an eye doctor promptly if your eye is painful and red, especially if you wear contact lenses. If you have sudden changes in vision, pain when looking at light, or a red eye with a severe headache and nausea, go to the nearest emergency department straight away or call 108 or 112.
To arrange an appointment, call the eye department on 91686 90442 or the main hospital line on 9158681123, or visit our website at www.chetnahospital.co.in.
Looking after dry eyes early helps keep your eyes comfortable.
General health information, not a diagnosis. Reviewed and updated by Chetna Hospital’s content team with the help of AI writing tools, November 2026.
