Feeling as if sand is in the eyes is a common complaint. Some people also describe pain, burning, discomfort, a foreign body sensation, and dryness. An ophthalmologist who works as a microsurgeon and laser surgeon at SM-Clinic explained to socialbites.ca why these sensations happen. Svetlana Mirgorodskaya.
The doctor notes that irritation or inflammation of the eye’s mucous membranes, including the conjunctiva or cornea, can trigger these feelings. Yet the causes vary. Dry eye syndrome stands out as one of the most frequent culprits.
Meibomian gland dysfunction can relate to changes in tear composition from hormonal shifts, inflammatory damage to tear-producing glands, or reduced blink efficiency during long near-visual tasks such as prolonged computer work, phone use, or close reading of small text, Mirgorodskaya explained.
Regular use of contact lenses or improper lens care practices, such as irregular cleaning or incorrect insertion and removal, is another common contributor to dry eye symptoms.
In addition, bacterial, viral, and allergic conditions affecting the front part of the eye, including conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and keratitis, can produce sand-like sensations along with pain, burning, eye redness, itching, tearing, discharge, and sensitivity to light.
Lagophthalmos, a condition where the eyelids do not fully close during sleep or after eyelid muscle weakness or surgery, can also cause uncomfortable eye sensations, the ophthalmologist noted.
Medications may play a role too. Some eye drops with stabilizing preservatives can worsen dryness, and certain oral medicines such as birth control pills or antihistamines may contribute to dry eyes for some people.
Another frequent factor is mechanical injury to the eye or the entry of a foreign object like dust, a splinter, or small debris. In such cases the sand-like feeling is often just one symptom among sharper pain, tearing, and light sensitivity.
Anyone troubled by a persistent sand sensation should seek an ophthalmologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This can prevent further irritation and protect vision over time. The message is clear: professional evaluation matters when discomfort persists.
Earlier discussions among eye specialists have also highlighted risks associated with popular eye makeup techniques.