Eyes often burn or sting when feeling unwell. This common sensation is a temporary response to various physiological changes during illness, frequently a symptom of the body’s reaction to an infection or other health issue.
Primary Causes of Ocular Discomfort
Burning eyes during illness often stem from inflammation, dryness, or irritation. Common viral infections, such as those causing the common cold, flu, or adenovirus, can trigger widespread inflammation that extends to the eyes. This systemic response can lead to conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva. Viral conjunctivitis commonly presents with burning, redness, and watery discharge.
Infections can disrupt the tear film, a protective layer that keeps the eye surface lubricated. When the tear film is unstable or deficient, eyes can feel dry, gritty, and burn. Bacterial infections also cause inflammation and discharge, often thicker and yellowish, contributing to discomfort. Bacterial conjunctivitis can cause pinkness, redness, burning, itching, a gritty feeling, and sticky discharge.
Dehydration, common when sick due to fever or reduced fluid intake, significantly impacts eye comfort. When the body lacks sufficient water, tear production decreases, leading to dry eyes and a burning sensation. The aqueous layer of the tear film becomes deficient, causing irritation. Staying hydrated helps tear glands function properly, preventing dryness.
Inflammation and pressure from sinus congestion also contribute to discomfort around the eyes. Swelling in the sinuses, located close to the eyes, can create referred pain or pressure that manifests as burning or aching in the eye area.
Allergies can exacerbate eye burning when the immune system is compromised. Allergic reactions cause the body to release inflammatory substances like histamines, leading to red, itchy, and burning eyes. These symptoms can worsen when the body fights another infection, making eyes more sensitive to irritants. Allergens such as dust, pollen, or pet dander can also directly irritate the eyes.
Managing the Sensation
Several at-home measures can help alleviate burning eyes during illness. Applying a cool compress to closed eyes can reduce inflammation and soothe discomfort. Cold temperatures constrict blood vessels, which helps to minimize redness and swelling.
Using over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can effectively combat dryness and irritation. These drops work by supplementing the natural tear film, helping to keep the eye surface moist and comfortable. Preservative-free options are available and often recommended for frequent use, as preservatives can sometimes cause irritation.
Staying adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is beneficial for overall recovery and supports natural tear production. Water is a component of tears, and sufficient intake helps maintain the tear film’s stability, reducing dryness and irritation. Avoiding dehydration is a straightforward way to support eye health during illness.
Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can worsen irritation and potentially introduce more germs. If wearing contact lenses, it is generally recommended to remove them during illness, especially if eyes are burning or irritated, to prevent further discomfort or infection. Resting the eyes and minimizing exposure to bright lights or screens can also reduce strain and promote comfort.
Identifying When to Seek Medical Care
While burning eyes when sick are often temporary, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. If the burning sensation is persistent, severe, or worsens over time, it warrants a doctor’s visit. Other concerning symptoms include severe eye pain, changes in vision such as blurriness or increased light sensitivity, or the presence of pus or thick discharge from the eye. Yellow, green, or sticky discharge, especially if eyelashes are crusted together in the morning, can be a sign of infection.
Redness that does not improve after a few days, or if accompanied by a high fever or severe headache, should also prompt medical consultation. These symptoms could signal a more serious eye infection, such as severe bacterial conjunctivitis or viral keratitis, which might require specific diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications. Delaying care for these symptoms could lead to more significant issues or even affect vision.