Though burning eyes are often known as a temporary discomfort, they can sometimes signal serious medical conditions. Beyond common causes such as exposure to allergens, prolonged computer use, and dry eyes, burning eyes can be symptoms of various infections, eye injuries, and even systemic diseases. Special attention should be paid, and an eye examination should be conducted if burning is accompanied by tearing, redness, stinging, or changes in vision.
What Causes Burning Eyes?
Burning eyes result from the irritation of the ocular surface or the weakening of the defense system. This condition can be caused by various environmental, allergic, infectious, or structural factors. Common causes include:
-
Environmental factors like dry air, cigarette smoke, wind, or air conditioning
-
Prolonged focus on digital screens reduces blinking rate and dries the ocular surface
-
Exposure to allergens
-
Foreign objects entering the eye or chemical exposure
-
Improper and prolonged use of contact lenses
-
Neglecting eye hygiene
What Diseases Can Burning Eyes Indicate?
Burning eyes occur alongside various symptoms, providing clues about underlying diseases. Here are conditions frequently associated with burning eyes:
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome occurs due to decreased tear production and reduced quality. When eyes remain dry, irritation occurs, accompanied by burning sensation, sensitivity to light, stinging, and blurred vision.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
In allergic reactions to substances like pollen, dust mites, mold, and animal dander, symptoms such as itching, burning, tearing, and redness in the eyes may occur. Allergic eye burnings are seasonal and affect both eyes.
Viral or Bacterial Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis arises from inflammation of the membrane covering the eye surface. It can be viral or bacterial. In these cases, burning is accompanied by discharge, watering of the eyes, and stickiness on the lids.
Blepharitis (Eyelid Inflammation)
This condition, caused by blockage of oil glands on the eyelid edges, leads to a burning sensation, sensation of a foreign granule in the eyes, and crusting on the eyelashes in the mornings.
Contact Lens-Induced Irritation
Prolonged and inappropriate use of contact lenses causes irritation on the ocular surface. This irritation results in burning, stinging, dryness, and blurred vision.
Corneal Diseases and Surface Disorders
Scratches, ulcers, or irritations on the corneal surface can cause direct burning eyes and sensitivity to light. If there is a sudden onset and intense burning sensation in one eye, a corneal evaluation is necessary.
What Do Symptoms Accompanying Burning Eyes Mean?
Burning eyes are often accompanied by other symptoms. These combinations provide important clues for diagnosis:
-
Burning Eyes and Tearing
The relationship between burning eyes and tearing indicates a dry eye problem. In such cases, the eyes might overproduce tears to protect themselves. Eyes can dry from situations like prolonged computer screen viewing and then start tearing with a burning sensation.
-
Burning Eyes and Itching
The relationship between burning eyes and itching is often seen in allergic conditions. It is commonly encountered in individuals with seasonal allergies or atopic predisposition. Particularly during pollen season or after contact with house dust, burning and itching may be felt in the eyes. In such cases, irritation and allergic reactions in the eyes cause itching.
-
Burning Eyes and Redness
Burning eyes and redness occur in cases of infections, blepharitis, or severe irritation. As a result of infection in an eye and inflammation at the base of the eyelashes, redness and a burning sensation may be felt in the eye. Not adhering to hygiene rules while using lenses can also lead to redness and burning in the eyes.
-
Burning Eyes and Stinging
The sensation of stinging along with burning eyes is associated with the presence of foreign objects or corneal problems. Wind may cause dust or eyelashes to enter the eye, leading to stinging and burning. Small scratches or traumas on the cornea may similarly cause such symptoms.
How to Relieve Burning Eyes?
Methods that can be applied at home to relieve discomfort:
-
You can rest your eyes by applying the 20-20-20 rule while viewing digital screens.
-
Humidify the atmosphere to prevent eye dryness.
-
Try to avoid allergens as much as possible.
-
Pay attention to the use of contact lenses and do not change them without doctor supervision.
-
Use tear-supporting drops upon doctor recommendation.
If the burning complaint persists over a long period, is accompanied by vision changes, or there is suspicion of an infection, consulting an eye doctor is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Vitamin Deficiency is Indicated by Burning Eyes?
Burning eyes can occur in deficiencies of vitamin A and vitamin B2. Vitamin A ensures the healthiness of the ocular surface, and its deficiency can lead to reduced tear production, resulting in dryness and a burning sensation. In case of vitamin B2 deficiency, burning in the eyes, sensitivity to light, and corneal diseases can occur.
Does Wearing Glasses Reduce Burning Eyes?
Wearing glasses can reduce eye strain, alleviating the complaint of burning eyes. However, if the glasses prescription is incorrect or glasses are not used when needed, strain in the eye muscles occurs, leading to burning and stinging sensations.
Can Infections Cause Burning Eyes?
Yes, especially infections like conjunctivitis can occur with symptoms such as burning eyes, tearing, discharge, and redness. In cases of infection, it typically starts in one eye and spreads to the other, potentially causing serious issues if untreated.
Is Burning Eyes Just Due to Fatigue?
Fatigue can be a common cause of burning eyes; however, it is temporary and diminishes with rest. Persistent or severe burning sensation can be an indication of more serious health problems like allergies, infections, dry eye syndrome, or ocular surface diseases.