10 typical signs of dry eye disease

DED sounds easy enough to be recognized, doesn't it? In fact, many people may not even know if they suffer from DED or not. So, check out the list of 10 typical signs of DED and find out if you have one.

1. Eye irritation

One of the most common symptoms of DED is eye irritation. It’s the same as the “something in my eye” feeling. If the symptom worsens, you may have a burning or itching feeling, which makes you want to rub your eyes constantly.^1-4

2. Dryness

Dryness is another common sign of DED. You may feel like your eyes are “out of water”, like a dry wind blowing. Even blinking or closing your eyes may not really help^1-4

3. Redness

Following the irritation is the redness. You can check this symptom easily with a mirror. Red eyes are a sign that you should seek medical help before DED worsens.^1-4

4. Tearing

It may surprise you that excessive tearing is a sign of DED. It’s called “feedback reflex”, which happens when your eyes lack water, and tears are excessively produced as a short-term solution.^1-4

5. Blurred vision

In DED, you may suffer blurred vision (sometimes swinging vision) for seconds. It’s the same sensation as trying your new glasses for the first time.^1-4

6. Light sensitivity

Sometimes, your eye irritation could make you fear light, try to avoid direct sunlight. Headaches may also occur with this symptom.^1-4

7. Heavy eyelids

Heavy eyelids (or tired eyes) could make you feel weak, and maybe sleepy. In this case, just take a short break for the eyes to recover. Spending too much time in front of a screen could worsen DED.^1-4

8. Discomfort with contact lenses

DED could make you feel uncomfortable, even difficult to wear your contact lenses. Try to avoid using contacts. Contact lenses may be fashionable, but they are also a risk factor, which causes or worsens DED.^1-4

9. Swollen eyes

Sometimes, you may find your eyes swollen and think that it’s because you stayed up late last night. This symptom, however, could indicate that you are having DED and need proper eye care.^1-4

10. Increased blinking times

Blinking is a natural way to protect your eyes from dryness or harmful external factors. If you are blinking more frequently, it could be a warning sign of increasing eye troubles, needing your attention.^1-4

If you experience any of these 10 signs, it is time to consult an ophthalmologist to see if you suffer from DED.