You wake up, and before you even get out of bed, you feel it—a gritty, sandy sensation in your eyes. This morning discomfort is a common experience for many, but that doesn’t make it any less irritating as you start your day.
Waking up with dry eyes often happens because of a combination of your environment, reduced tear production during sleep, and eyelids that aren’t fully closing while you sleep. Addressing these factors may help you find relief.
If your dry eye continues to persist even after making changes, you may want to consider dry eye therapy.
Common Reasons for Waking Up With Dry Eyes
You wake up, and before you even get out of bed, you feel it—that gritty, sandy sensation in your eyes. But what’s causing this sensation?
Your Environment & Air Quality
The air in your bedroom plays a big part in how your eyes feel. Dry air, often from heating or air conditioning, can zap moisture from your eyes while you sleep. This effect is especially noticeable in climates like ours, where the air is naturally less humid.
Reduced Tear Production at Night
Your body produces fewer tears when you’re asleep. This natural decrease can sometimes be enough to cause dryness, especially if your tear quality isn’t ideal to begin with. Without a steady flow of tears to keep them moist, your eyes can become irritated overnight.
Incomplete Eyelid Closure
Some people’s eyelids don’t close completely during sleep—a condition known as nocturnal lagophthalmos. Even a small gap can expose the eye’s surface to air all night. This constant exposure leads to significant dryness and discomfort upon waking.
How Your Sleep Habits Affect Your Eyes
The way you sleep can have a direct effect on your eye health. A few simple changes to your nightly routine might make a difference in how your eyes feel each morning.
The Role of Your Sleep Position
Your sleeping position could contribute to dry eyes. Sleeping with your face pressed into a pillow or blanket can prevent your eyelids from sealing properly. This can create a small opening that allows air to dry out your eyes as you rest.
Airflow From Fans or Vents
A ceiling fan or a vent blowing directly on your face can feel nice, but the constant airflow can dry out your eyes and is a frequent cause of morning eye irritation. Redirecting the airflow away from your face can be a simple fix.
Digital Screen Use Before Bed
Spending time on your phone or computer right before bed can affect your blink rate. You tend to blink less when you focus on a screen, which can lead to issues like digital eye strain and leave your eyes dry before you even close them for the night. This dryness can carry over and worsen as you sleep.
Underlying Health Conditions & Dry Eyes
Sometimes, waking up with dry eyes is related to other factors going on in your body. It’s helpful to be aware of these connections.
Certain Medications
Many common medications list dry eye as a side effect. These can include antihistamines, decongestants, some antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medicines. If you’ve started a new medication and noticed more eye dryness, it could be related.
Hormonal Changes & Age
As you get older, your tear production naturally slows down. Hormonal shifts associated with life stages, such as menopause, can also alter tear composition and lead to dryness. These changes can make your eyes more prone to irritation.
Is Dry Eye a Symptom of Diabetes?
For some people, dry eye can be connected to health conditions like diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves throughout the body, including those that support healthy tear function. This can result in decreased tear production and chronic dry eye symptoms.
Simple Ways to Relieve Morning Dry Eye
A few simple, practical habits can help your eyes feel more comfortable when you wake up. Here’s what to try:
Use a Humidifier in Your Bedroom
A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help prevent your eyes from drying out overnight. It’s an easy way to create a more eye-friendly sleep space. This is particularly helpful during dry winter months or in arid climates.
Apply a Warm Compress
Placing a warm, damp cloth over your closed eyelids for a few minutes before bed can help stimulate oil glands along your eyelids. This improves tear quality and helps your eyes stay lubricated. Healthy oils prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly.
Choose the Right Artificial Tears
Using lubricating eye drops before you go to sleep can provide extra moisture throughout the night. Look for preservative-free options if you plan to use eye drops regularly, as they’re often gentler on your eyes. A gel or ointment formula can offer longer-lasting relief.
When to Consult an Eye Doctor in Colorado Springs
While home remedies can offer relief, persistent dry eye symptoms are a sign that it’s time to get a professional opinion.
Signs You Need a Professional Opinion
Pay attention to symptoms that don’t go away. If you experience any of the following, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment:
- Persistent redness or irritation
- Blurry vision that doesn’t clear up
- A constant feeling of something in your eye
- Pain or increased sensitivity to light
At Eye Care Center of Colorado Springs, we can perform an evaluation to understand why your eyes are dry and develop a plan to help you find lasting relief. Contact us to schedule a visit and discuss your symptoms.
