Why is dry eye worse in the morning?
Chloe Ramirez
Updated on February 28, 2026
The main symptoms are inflamed, dry, red and sore eyes. These symptoms may be worse in the morning because not blinking at night results in the glands becoming more blocked, and the vital oil layer of the tears dissipates while you sleep.
How do you prevent dry eyes while sleeping?
There are some simple things you can do to help prevent nighttime dry eye.
- Use a humidifier. Adding moisture to the air in your bedroom may help with nighttime dry eye, especially if your air is very dry.
- Reduce the impact of screens. ...
- Change your eyewear. ...
- Wash bedding regularly. ...
- Stay hydrated.
What does dry eye feel like in the morning?
Some of the common symptoms of dry eye include: Burning, aching or itchy eyes. A gritty feeling or feeling like something is in your eye. Blurred vision.Why are my eyes so irritated when I wake up?
The most common cause of morning eye irritation is dry eye. Dry eye is when your eyes either don't produce enough tears, or your tears evaporate too quickly. In addition to burning, your eyes may be itchy, bloodshot, or swollen.Why are my eyes so dry after I sleep?
Some of the most common causes of dry eye during sleep include: Changes in Metabolism - Your metabolism slows down during sleep, with a drop in body temperature and blood circulation. Both can result in reduces tear production while you are sleeping.Why are dry eyes worse at night?
How do you permanently treat dry eyes?
Currently, there is no permanent cure for dry eye disease. However, a number of options can help maintain moisture in the eyes. These can reduce symptoms and protect vision.Should you use eye drops before bed?
Use eye drops before bedIf you frequently experience dry eyes in the morning, apply eyedrops to your eyes each night before bed. Also, certain types of lubricating eye drops or ointments are best used before bedtime because they're thicker and can blur your vision.
What are the best drops for dry eyes?
Below, find various gel eye drops that are available to buy without a prescription, both online and in person.
- Systane Gel Drops. Best for digital eye strain. ...
- Refresh Optive Mega-3. Best preservative-free eye drops. ...
- I-Med Pharma I-Drop Pur Gel. ...
- hydraSense Night Therapy for Dry Eyes. ...
- Refresh Relieva for Contacts.