Does it feel like sand is constantly in your eyes, no matter how much you blink or rinse them? That scratchy, gritty sensation can make reading, screen work, or even spending time outside uncomfortable. In many cases, this irritation is a sign of dry eye.  

At Primary EyeCare Associates in Troy, Sidney, and Fort Loramie, our experienced optometrists offer dry eye treatment to relieve irritation and keep your eyes comfortable. We focus on understanding the cause so your eyes can feel healthy again. 

What causes gritty eyes? 

Gritty eyes usually happen when your tear film—the thin layer of moisture that protects and lubricates your eyes—isn’t working properly. Without enough lubrication, your eyes can feel dry, scratchy, or like there’s a foreign particle inside. Common triggers include: 

• Environmental factors like wind, smoke, or dry indoor air 
• Long hours at a computer or digital device 
• Contact lenses that don’t fit perfectly or aren’t well-lubricated 
• Allergies or seasonal irritants 
• Underlying conditions affecting tear production 

Understanding the cause helps our team find the right solution for lasting relief. 

Signs your eyes may need professional care 

Gritty eyes aren’t always just annoying—they can interfere with everyday life. Consider scheduling a comprehensive eye exam if you notice: 

• Persistent scratchy, sandy, or burning sensations 
• Red or watery eyes
• Blurred or fluctuating vision 
• Discomfort with contact lenses 
• Sensitivity to light 

Our friendly, knowledgeable optometrists in Fort Loramie, Troy, and Sidney can evaluate your eyes and determine whether dry eye or another condition is causing your symptoms. 

How dry eye treatment can help 

There are several ways to manage gritty eyes and get lasting relief. Treatments we offer at Primary EyeCare Associates include: 

• IPL therapy with low-level light therapy – Uses controlled light pulses to reduce eyelid inflammation and stimulate natural tear production, addressing one of the root causes of dry eye. 
• Scleral lenses – Large, custom-fit contact lenses that vault over the cornea, creating a protective fluid reservoir to relieve severe dryness and improve vision clarity. 
• Amniotic membranes – Biologically active membranes placed on the eye’s surface to promote healing, reduce irritation, and support the regeneration of healthy ocular tissue. 
• Medicated eye drops – Prescription drops designed to reduce inflammation, increase lubrication, and restore moisture balance on the eye’s surface. 

If you wear contact lenses, these treatments can make wearing them more comfortable. If necessary, we can also recommend specialty contact lenses that suit your eyes better. Glasses can also provide relief during flare-ups or extended screen time. 

How to manage dry, gritty eyes at home 

Besides in-office treatments, small daily habits can help reduce irritation:   

• Use lubricating eye drops recommended by your eye doctor 
• Take breaks from screens and blink fully while reading or working 
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect against the wind and the sun 
• Drink water throughout the day to support tear production 
• Avoid fans or vents blowing directly at your eyes 
• Follow your treatment plan consistently 

These habits complement professional care and help keep your eyes feeling comfortable every day. 

Other causes of gritty eyes 

While dry eye is common, other issues can also make your eyes feel scratchy: 

• Allergies or environmental irritants 
• Eye infections or inflammation 
• Corneal scratches or minor injuries 
• Post-LASIK surgery changes 
• Certain medications 

Our eye doctors can figure out what’s causing a gritty sensation in your eyes and develop a customized treatment plan, helping your eyes feel comfortable and healthy again. 

Restore your comfort and protect your vision 

Living with gritty, scratchy eyes can make daily tasks uncomfortable and even affect your focus. Addressing dry eye early not only relieves irritation but also helps prevent long-term complications and protects your eye health. 

Schedule an appointment at a Primary EyeCare Associates location near you to start enjoying clear, comfortable vision and lasting relief for your eyes.