You wake up, rub your eyes, and instantly notice that scratchy, gritty feeling—sometimes it even feels like sand got in your eyes overnight. Morning dryness can be uncomfortable and make it hard to start your day. If this happens frequently, it may point to an underlying issue that could benefit from dry eye treatment in Council Bluffs or Omaha.
In this post, we’ll share the most common causes of morning dry eyes and how to find relief.
Why are my eyes dry when I wake up?
A few factors can contribute to scratchy, crusty eyes in the morning:
- Tear quality issues: Tears have three layers: oil, water, and mucus. If the oil layer is thin, tears evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes dry by morning.
- Blocked meibomian glands: These tiny glands in your eyelids produce oils that prevent tears from evaporating. When these glands get clogged, it can result in a condition called meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), leading to increased tear evaporation and dry eye symptoms.
- Sleep environment: Dry indoor air from heaters, fans, or air conditioning can quickly cause dry eyes. Even how you sleep on your pillow can matter.
- Incomplete eyelid closure: If your eyelids don’t fully close while sleeping, your eyes may dry out and feel uncomfortable when you wake up.
How to fix dry eyes in the morning
You don’t need complicated routines to feel better. A few daily habits can make mornings easier on your eyes:
- Use a humidifier: Moist air in the bedroom helps the eyes stay hydrated while you sleep.
- Preservative-free artificial tears: A few eye drops in the morning can instantly soothe irritation.
- Warm compresses: Heated masks help unclog oil glands and improve tear quality.
- Moisture protection: Sleep masks or moisture goggles help shield your eyes overnight.
- Manage airflow: Avoid sleeping directly under vents or fans.
- Eyelid hygiene: Gentle cleansing wipes reduce irritation and debris.
- Omega-3 supplements: Supporting tear production can improve overall eye comfort.
Advanced dry eye care when home remedies aren’t enough
If dryness doesn’t improve with regular eye drop use or home remedies, a comprehensive eye exam can help uncover the root cause. Our eye doctors in Omaha and Council Bluffs can evaluate your tear production and eyelid function and recommend solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Treatment options may include tear duct plugs, medications for inflammation, tear-stimulating drugs, special eye drops, or light therapy. If you wear contact lenses, a personalized contact lens exam can ensure your lenses fit comfortably and won’t worsen dryness.
Wake up feeling refreshed
Don’t put off scheduling an eye exam—chronic or severe dry eye can lead to complications if left untreated. Whether you need dry eye treatment or updated contact lenses, our team can help your eyes feel clear, comfortable, and ready for the day.
Call one of our offices or schedule online today to protect your eyes and enjoy mornings without irritation.
