Dry, irritated eyes are often associated with tiredness. Depending on the relevant causes and the corresponding symptoms, either the dry conjunctivitis or tired eyes can be the primary complaint.
Dry conjunctivitis – “dry eye”
Approximately 5 to 6% of the population are affected by dry eye, which is more common among women than men.
Symptoms
- Dry sensation in the eye
- Heavy eyelid
- The feeling of having ‘something in one’s eye’
- Sticky, itchy and reddened eyelids in the morning
Potential causes
- Insufficient lacrimation (production, secretion of tears)
- Hormonal changes, e.g. menopause
- External factors: air conditioning, dry air from heating systems, contact lenses, long hours in front of the television or computer