What Causes Dryness And Irritation Of Eye?

Posted on Thu, 16 Oct 2014

Question: Experiencing dryness and irritation in the eye. I keep rubbing my eyes until it becomes red or relaxes me (can't help). This could be due to reasons as below:
1. Staying awake late night working or net browsing
2. Constant exposure to laptop screen/ phone

Should I consult a doctor or go ahead and take eye drops like Genteal?

Note: i stay in XXXXXXX and badly allergic to dust.

Answered by Dr. Dadapeer K (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
This indicate dry eye with allergy.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Welcome to Health care magic.

I am Dr. Dadapeer K an ophthalmologist and I answer health problems related to eye.

I reviewed your history.
These symptoms indicate dry eye with allergic conjunctivitis.
Dry eye is because of excessive use of laptop and it is called as computer vision syndrome. The treatment is by use of artificial tears eye drops. You can use artificial tears like Genteal. Along with eye drops you need to avoid continuous use of computer/ laptop by taking frequent breaks in between. A break of about 5 minutes is required after working with laptop for one hour. You need to avoid use of air conditioner or fan while using laptop as these will increase dryness of eyes.

Itching of eyes is because of allergic conjunctivitis, this requires treatment by the use of anti allergic drugs.
I usually prefer to start treatment with anti allergic drugs like olopatadine along with artificial tears.

If the symptoms persist inspite of using these drops then you need to consult your doctor for examination and treatment accordingly.

Hope the information is helpful to you.

Thank you
With regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj