Eye Pain: Causes and Solutions for Tear-Induced Discomfort

Eye stinging?

Hello Dr.
Feng, I have a question that has been bothering me for a long time...
Whenever my eyes tear up (like when I yawn), or when I get caught in the rain, or at the beginning of crying, even just a little bit of tears causes my eyes to hurt a lot.
However, if I quickly wipe away the tears, it gets better quickly.
But when I wash my face or come into contact with water, I don't feel any stinging.
This didn't happen often before, but in the past six months, this issue has become more frequent.
Why is this happening? Is it because my eyes are too dry? Also, when I look closely at the computer screen, I feel like it keeps flickering (though it's not very obvious).
I previously visited a doctor who said it was due to dry eyes...
Is that correct? I have been using the prescribed medication, but there hasn't been much improvement.
Please help me understand, thank you!

sbaru, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/27

Dr. Feng Jiefan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, based on the symptoms you described, it is very likely that they are caused by dry eye syndrome.
When the eyes are too dry, the corneal epithelium can become damaged and eroded, exposing the corneal nerves.
This can lead to pain when exposed to tears or irritating liquids.
It is important to first address the dry eye syndrome; once the cornea is no longer injured, the pain should improve.
The symptoms of dry eye syndrome can vary widely, and there are many potential causes.
Sometimes, it may be associated with abnormalities of the eyelids, which would require some treatment.
If you experience flickering when looking at a computer screen, it could be related to issues with the retina or corneal tear film.
A thorough examination is necessary to understand the actual condition.
Sincerely, Dr.
Feng Chieh-Fan, Ophthalmologist.

Reply Date: 2004/09/27

More Info

Understanding eye pain, particularly when tears are involved, can be quite complex. Your experience of pain upon tearing, whether from yawning, crying, or even rainwater, is not uncommon and can be attributed to several factors.
Firstly, it’s important to consider the composition of tears. Tears are not just water; they contain proteins, lipids, and electrolytes that help maintain the health of the eye's surface. When tears are produced in response to emotional stimuli or environmental factors, they may interact differently with the eye compared to water. If your eyes are sensitive or if there is an underlying condition, this interaction can lead to discomfort or pain.

One potential cause of your symptoms could be related to dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Interestingly, dry eyes can paradoxically lead to excessive tearing as the body attempts to compensate for the dryness. If your eyes are dry, the tears produced may not be of optimal quality, leading to irritation when they come into contact with the eye surface.

Another possibility is that you may have a condition known as "epiphora," which is characterized by excessive tearing. This can occur due to blockages in the tear ducts or other issues with tear drainage. When tears overflow, they can irritate the skin around the eyes and the eye itself, causing discomfort.

Additionally, your mention of experiencing a "flashing" sensation when looking at a computer screen could indicate digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. This condition arises from prolonged screen time, leading to symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and discomfort. The flickering you perceive may be a result of the screen refresh rate or your eyes struggling to maintain focus, which can exacerbate feelings of discomfort.

Given that you have noted an increase in these symptoms over the past six months, it may be beneficial to explore a few self-care strategies. Here are some recommendations:
1. Artificial Tears: While you mentioned that you have tried some medications without much improvement, it may be worth experimenting with different types of artificial tears. Look for preservative-free options, as these tend to be gentler on the eyes.

2. Screen Breaks: Implement the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This can help reduce eye strain.

3. Humidity: Use a humidifier in your workspace to maintain moisture in the air, which can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.

4. Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to your eyes can help stimulate tear production and relieve discomfort.

5. Consultation: Since your symptoms have worsened, it may be wise to revisit an eye care professional. They can conduct a thorough examination to rule out any underlying conditions such as blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, or other ocular surface diseases.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to dry eyes or sensitivity to tears, a comprehensive evaluation by an eye care specialist is crucial to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Your comfort and eye health are paramount, and addressing these issues early can help prevent further complications.

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