Why Are My Eyes Burning? Causes and Treatments

Are you wondering why your eyes are burning? A burning sensation in the eyes is often due to minor irritations that go away once your natural tears wash them out. However, if the burning persists for more than a few hours, it could indicate a more severe issue, like dry eye syndrome, pink eye (conjunctivitis), blepharitis, or an allergic reaction. 

Visiting your eye doctor is the only way to accurately diagnose and treat burning eyes. Fox Chase Family Eye Care can determine the cause of your discomfort to provide lasting relief.

Eye Conditions That Cause Burning Eyes

Dry Eye Syndrome

The leading cause of burning eyes is dry eye syndrome. Healthy tears are a balanced mixture of water, oil, and mucus. If this balance is disrupted—whether through insufficient tear production or poor tear quality—your eyes become dry and irritated, and you experience a burning sensation.

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) 

Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a viral or bacterial infection affecting one or both eyes. It is highly contagious and can spread through coughing or sneezing. Symptoms of pink eye include watery, itchy, or burning eyes, often accompanied by redness. 

Blepharitis 

Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelids, which leads to red, sore eyelids and crusty debris at the base of the eyelashes. It can cause a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes, along with grittiness and itchy eyelids. 

Burning Eyes Due to Environmental Factors

1. Allergies: Airborne allergens such as pet dander, pollen, or mold can irritate the eyes, causing them to burn, itch, or tear up. 
2. Chemicals: Exposure to household cleaners can irritate the eyes and cause a burning sensation. Aerosol sprays and disinfectants contain volatile compounds that also lead to eye discomfort. 
3. Fragrances: Many people are sensitive to the fragrances in perfumes, shampoos, and skin creams. Exposure to these can result in burning or irritated eyes. 
4. Foreign Particles: Small particles, like dust or debris, can get into your eyes, leading to discomfort, including a burning sensation. Your natural tears usually flush these out, but sometimes the irritation lingers.

The Link Between Dry Eyes and Burning Eyes

Tears are essential for maintaining healthy, comfortable vision. They keep your eyes moist and help wash away foreign particles. When your eyes don't produce enough tears—or if the quality of your tears is poor—your eyes can become dry and irritated, leading to that familiar burning sensation.

What Causes Dry Eyes?

Dry eye syndrome can be caused by various factors, including: 

• Age: Dry eyes are more common as you age, particularly in adults over 65. 
• Gender: Women are more prone to dry eyes due to hormonal changes from pregnancy, oral contraceptives, or menopause. 
• Medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production. 
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can lead to dry eyes. Eye surface inflammation, eyelid disorders, and Blepharitis also contribute to dry eyes. 
• Environment: Smoke, wind, and dry climates can cause your tears to evaporate quickly, leading to dryness and irritation. 
• Contact Lenses and Eye Surgeries: Long-term contact lens wear and refractive surgeries like LASIK can also reduce tear production.

How to Treat or Alleviate Burning Eyes 

If you’re experiencing a burning sensation in your eyes, visit the eye doctors at Fox Chase Family Eye Care. We will examine your eyes and determine the underlying cause of your discomfort. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options may include: 

• Dry Eye Treatment: Lubricating eye drops, warm compresses, or artificial tears can help keep your eyes moisturized. 
• Pink Eye or Blepharitis: If your burning eyes are caused by pink eye or blepharitis, anti-inflammatory drops may be prescribed to target and relieve the inflammation. 
• Allergies: If allergies are causing your burning eyes, antihistamines and decongestants can alleviate symptoms and eliminate the burning sensation. 

Get Relief for Burning Eyes at Fox Chase Family Eye Care

Contact our Philadelphia eye clinic if you're wondering ‘why is my eye burning’ and need relief. We will work with you to determine the cause and provide the proper treatment to restore your eye comfort. 

We serve patients from Philadelphia, Jenkintown, Cheltenham, Fox Chase, and surrounding Pennsylvania communities, ensuring you enjoy clear vision and lasting eye health.