Why Your Eyes Burn And What You Can Do About It

That uncomfortable stinging or burning feeling in your eyes? You’re not alone. Burning eyes are a common complaint and while the cause is often something minor like dry air or eye strain, they can also signal an underlying issue that needs attention.

To get relief, it’s important to identify what’s behind the burn. Here are seven common causes of burning eyes and how to treat them effectively.

1. Dry Eye Syndrome

If your eyes feel gritty, red, or like they're on fire, you may have dry eye a condition where your eyes don't make enough high-quality tears to stay lubricated.

Long hours staring at screens can make the problem worse. We blink less while looking at digital devices, which reduces tear production, according to the American Optometric Association.

Common signs:

• Burning or stinging

• A gritty or sandy feeling

• Redness or light sensitivity

• Paradoxically, watery eyes (due to poor-quality reflex tears)

Treatment tips:

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

• Use preservative-free artificial tears

• Add a humidifier to your space

• Consider prescription eye drops if symptoms persist

2. Allergies

When your eyes burn and itch, seasonal or environmental allergies are often to blame. Pollen, pet dander, and dust mites can all trigger the release of histamine, causing inflammation in the eye’s tissues.

Common signs:

• Itchy, watery, or swollen eyes

• Sneezing or nasal congestion

• Redness or puffiness

Treatment tips:

• Use antihistamine eye drops

• Apply a cold compress

• Keep windows closed during peak allergy seasons

• Shower and change clothes after time outdoors

3. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Pink eye can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens. In viral cases, burning eyes often come with other symptoms like a sore throat or runny nose. Bacterial pink eye may include thick discharge or crusting.

Common signs:

• Redness and irritation

• Burning or itching

• Discharge from the eyes

• Swelling of eyelids

Treatment tips:

• See a doctor to determine the cause

• Use warm or cold compresses

• Avoid touching your eyes

• Clean pillowcases and towels frequently

4. Ocular Rosacea

Ocular rosacea is a lesser-known type of rosacea that affects the eyes, causing inflammation and burning. It often accompanies the skin condition but may appear on its own.

Common signs:

• Burning, red, or watery eyes

• Swollen eyelids

• Light sensitivity

Treatment tips:

• Use prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops or antibiotics

• Apply warm compresses

• Avoid triggers like spicy foods or alcohol

5. Blepharitis

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids, often due to bacteria or clogged oil glands. It causes a buildup of debris on your eyelashes and along the lash line.

Common signs:

• Burning or stinging

• Red, swollen eyelids

• Crusty eyelashes

• A foreign body sensation

Treatment tips:

• Clean your eyelids daily with a warm compress and gentle eyelid cleanser

• Avoid eye makeup during flare-ups

• Ask your doctor about antibiotic ointments or drops if symptoms persist

6. Contact Lens Irritation

Wearing contact lenses for too long or not cleaning them properly can irritate your eyes and even cause infections like keratitis. Burning can occur when lenses are old, dirty, or dry out your eyes.

Common signs:

• Eye discomfort when putting in or removing lenses

• Blurred vision

• Redness or light sensitivity

Treatment tips:

• Give your eyes regular breaks from contacts

• Replace lenses as directed

• Never sleep or swim in contact lenses

• Switch to glasses and consult your doctor if burning persists

7. Photokeratitis (Sunburned Eyes)

Too much exposure to UV light from the sun (or tanning beds) can cause photokeratitis, or sunburn of the cornea. This often happens without warning and symptoms appear hours later.

Common signs:

• Burning or pain

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision or tearing

• Feeling like there’s sand in your eyes

Treatment tips:

• Stay in a dark room

• Use lubricating eye drops

• Wear sunglasses with UV protection going forward

• See a doctor if symptoms worsen or don't improve in 24 hours

When to See a Doctor

While many causes of burning eyes are minor and treatable at home, certain symptoms should prompt a visit to an eye doctor:

• Persistent or worsening pain

• Vision changes or blurriness

• Significant discharge or swelling

• Burning that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter drops

If you wear contacts and develop sudden irritation especially after exposure to water stop using your lenses and call your doctor, as this could be a sign of a serious infection like Acanthamoeba keratitis.

The Bottom Line

Burning eyes can be uncomfortable, but in most cases, identifying the cause can lead you to the right treatment. Whether it’s allergies, screen time, or an eye condition, relief is possible with the right care and when in doubt, a check-up with your eye doctor can help ensure your eyes stay healthy and clear.

Found this useful? Share it or subscribe to our newsletter for more evidence-based wellness tips.