Dry, gritty, tired eyes by the end of the day are one of the most common complaints we hear — and one of the most misunderstood. It’s rarely about not drinking enough water. It’s usually something more specific.
What’s actually happening
Your eyes are coated in a thin layer of tears every time you blink, made up of water, oil and mucus in careful balance. Dry eye happens when that film doesn’t form properly, evaporates too quickly, or isn’t produced in sufficient quantity. The result is that gritty, tired, sometimes stinging sensation.
Common causes
Screen time is a major factor — we blink far less often when we’re focused on a screen, sometimes by more than half. Air conditioning, heating, wind, and simply getting older can all play a role too. Certain medications and long-term contact lens wear can contribute as well.
Simple things that help
Small habits go a long way. Taking regular breaks from screens, blinking consciously and fully rather than partially, and keeping air-conditioned spaces a little more humid can all make a genuine difference. Preservative-free lubricating drops are widely available and generally safe for regular use.
When it’s worth a proper look
If dryness is persistent, worsening, or affecting your day-to-day comfort, it’s worth having your eyes properly assessed rather than just managing around it. There can be underlying causes worth identifying, and your optometrist can rule those out and recommend something more targeted than generic drops.
It’s a small thing, but comfortable eyes make a real difference to how your glasses feel day to day too — worth mentioning next time you’re in for a fitting.