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Burning eyes is a common symptom of various eye diseases. One of the main causes of burning eyes is accidental exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke and dust; however, a variety of other factors, both ocular and extra-ocular, can induce this manifestation.
, which vary depending on the underlying medical condition. Often, this annoying manifestation arises together with itching, redness and eye irritation. Some people also complain of blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, and difficulty reading when they experience burning eyes.The burning sensation is often associated with other eye symptoms such as:
- Excessive tearing
- Red, sore eyes
- Dryness;
- Eye pain
- Feeling that something is inside an eye;
- Discharge from the eye;
- Photophobia (light discomfort);
- Itching.
The causes and symptoms can involve not only the eyes but other organs of the body as well. For example, nasal manifestations that can accompany burning eyes include:
- Postnasal discharge;
- A runny nose;
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose or nasal congestion.
In some cases, burning eyes can be a symptom of a serious illness that should be evaluated in an emergency setting. The condition requires medical attention if the following signs also arise:
- Bleeding from the eye;
- Secretions of thick, yellow or greenish material;
- Sudden change in visual function, blurred or double vision;
- Excessive eye pain
- Flashes of light (photopsia);
- Floaters (appearance of floaters, blackheads, dark spots or streaks, in the visual field).
Seasonal or perennial allergies can also cause eye inflammation (allergic conjunctivitis) that typically occurs with this symptom. Burning eyes can develop as a result of a reaction to airborne allergens, such as pollen or animal hair, or placed in direct contact with the conjunctival mucosa, such as make-up and moisturizers. Obviously, the main causes of this manifestation include various diseases affecting the eye and adnexa, such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye syndrome), conjunctivitis or blepharitis. Also infections of the upper respiratory tract, such as the flu or cold can be accompanied by burning eyes.
Environmental causes of burning eyes
- Exposure to dust, sand and wind;
- Exposure to the sun, without protective glasses;
- Smog and cigarette smoke (including passive);
- Allergens: Pollen, dust mites, mold or pet dander.
Chemical causes of burning eyes
- Irritating chemicals in the air;
- Household cleaners;
- Shampoos, sprays and / or hair dyes;
- Soap, perfumes and cosmetics for skin care or eye make-up;
- Chlorine in swimming pools.
Pathological conditions
- Allergies;
- Bacterial conjunctivitis;
- Viral conjunctivitis;
- Dry eye syndrome;
- Blepharitis;
- Periorbital cellulitis;
- Uveitis and iritis;
- Sjögren's syndrome;
- Rosacea;
- Wegener's granulomatosis.
Other causes
- Age (alteration of the tear film linked to aging);
- Medicines (as a side effect);
- Wear contact lenses for prolonged periods, do not remove them overnight and do not change them regularly;
- Lack of eye protection in hazardous work environments (example: welding processes);
- Excessive use of computer monitors or televisions (eyestrain);
- Irritation caused by a foreign body.
Often, once exposure to an irritant has been eliminated, the stinging of the eyes resolves spontaneously within a short time. In other cases, the use of artificial tears or antihistamines (oral, eye drops or ointments) can relieve symptoms. and support indicated therapy for the underlying condition. If the cause is a bacterial infection, the doctor may prescribe eye drops or ointments containing an antibiotic. To avoid burning eyes it is very important to take precautionary measures: avoid environmental pollutants, use a humidifier if the environment is very dry ( e.g. for heating in closed rooms) and be sure to wash your hands often when handling contact lenses. Applying cold compresses to the eyelids for about 10 minutes can be a simple home remedy that offers relief.
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