What Causes Severe Eye Pain, Itching, and Dryness in Both Eyes?

Hello,

Having continuous pain, irritation, itching, and dryness in both eyes can be very uncomfortable and should not be ignored, especially when the pain is persistent. These symptoms can happen due to dry eyes, allergies, eye infection, prolonged screen use, or other eye conditions. An eye examination is important to find the exact cause.

What to Do for Eye Irritation and Pain

Please consult an ophthalmologist (eye specialist) if the pain is continuing or getting worse. The doctor can examine the eyes and check for dryness, allergy, infection, or any problem with the cornea.

Until then :

• Give your eyes regular breaks from mobile and computer screens.

• Avoid rubbing or scratching your eyes, even when they itch.

• Wash your hands before touching the eye area.

• Use clean water to gently clean the face and eyelids.

• Stay away from dust, smoke, strong perfumes, and other things that trigger irritation.

• Get enough sleep and stay well hydrated.

Treatment for Dry and Itchy Eyes

Treatment depends on the cause. An ophthalmologist recommend lubricating/artificial tear drops for dry eyes. If an allergy is responsible, appropriate anti-allergy eye drops may be prescribed.

Do not use steroid eye drops or antibiotic eye drops without an eye specialist's advice. Some eye drops commonly used for redness can also cause problems when used repeatedly.

If you wear contact lenses, stop wearing them while the eyes are painful or irritated and get them checked by an eye specialist.

Home Remedies for Eye Dryness

• A clean cool compress over closed eyes may help reduce itching and irritation.

• If dryness is the main problem, blink frequently while using screens.

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for around 20 seconds.

• Avoid sitting directly under an air conditioner or fan blowing toward your eyes.

• Keep your surroundings as dust-free as possible.

When to See an Eye Doctor Urgently

Please seek urgent eye care if you develop :

• Sudden decrease or loss of vision

• Severe or increasing eye pain

• Strong sensitivity to light

• Significant redness or swelling

• Pus or thick discharge

• Injury or chemical exposure to the eye

• Severe headache with eye pain, nausea or vomiting

• New flashes of light, many floaters, or a curtain-like shadow in your vision

Your symptoms are often treatable, so there is no need to panic. But because you have continuous pain in both eyes along with itching and dryness, getting an eye examination is the safest way to identify the cause and start the right treatment.

Wishing you and your family good health always.
Warm regards,
Team HexaHealth