Do you often wake up with dry, crusty eyes in the morning? Morning dry eyes can be uncomfortable and may signal an underlying issue. If eye drops and home remedies are ineffective in providing relief, you may need professional dry eye treatment near you. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the main reasons your eyes feel dry in the morning and discuss solutions to keep your eyes healthy and hydrated. At Primary EyeCare Associates in Fort Loramie, Troy, and Sidney, our eye doctors can assess your condition during a comprehensive eye exam and recommend treatments tailored to your needs. 

Why are my eyes so dry in the morning? 

Several factors can contribute to morning dry eyes: 

• Incomplete eyelid closure: Some people don’t fully close their eyes while sleeping, which can cause dryness and irritation. 
• Meibomian gland dysfunction: The meibomian glands in your eyelids produce oils that prevent tear evaporation. Blockages or irregularities can leave eyes feeling dry overnight. 
• Environmental factors: Low humidity in your bedroom, air conditioning, or heating can dry out your eyes while you sleep. 
• Contact lens wear: Sleeping in certain types of contact lenses, even overnight lenses, may contribute to dryness. 
• Aging or hormonal changes that affect tear production 
• Side effects from certain medications or medical conditions 

How to fix dry eyes in the morning 

Here are some effective strategies for reducing morning dryness and protecting your eyes: 

• Apply preservative-free artificial tears before bed to keep your eyes moist overnight 
• Use lubricating nighttime eye drops or ointments to provide longer-lasting hydration while you sleep 
• Maintain a comfortable sleep environment with a humidifier to prevent dry air 
• Stay hydrated throughout the day and consider eyelid hygiene routines to improve tear quality 

When to see an eye doctor for dry eyes 

If morning dryness persists or worsens, it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. At Primary EyeCare Associates, our friendly, knowledgeable eye doctors can recommend treatments tailored to your needs, such as: 

• Amniotic membrane therapy for severe ocular surface damage 
• Medicated eye drops to reduce inflammation 
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy combined with low level light therapy (LLLT) to improve meibomian gland function 

A professional evaluation ensures proper diagnosis and relief from chronic dry eyes. 

Are you tired of dry, crusty eyes in the morning? 

Don’t let morning dry eyes disrupt your day. Call our office or use our online appointment request form and find the best solutions for your eyes.