What causes dryness and itching in the eyes?

    In general, dry and itchy eyes may be caused by environmental factors, prolonged use of electronic screens, dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis, keratitis, and other conditions. Symptomatic treatment through general therapy and medication may be necessary. If symptoms are severe, timely medical consultation and adherence to medical advice for treatment are recommended. A detailed analysis is as follows:

    1. Environmental Factors

    In dry environments, the evaporation rate of tears increases, and the stability of the tear film decreases, leading to reduced lubrication on the eye surface, causing dryness and itching sensations, possibly accompanied by eye fatigue and blurred vision. It is recommended to maintain appropriate indoor humidity, use humidifiers, and avoid prolonged direct exposure to air conditioning or fans.

    2. Prolonged Use of Electronic Screens

    Staring at electronic screens such as computers and mobile phones for extended periods during work or entertainment reduces blinking frequency, leading to dry and itchy eyes, possibly accompanied by eye fatigue and blurred vision. It is recommended to use eye protection modes or blue light filtering glasses to reduce eye irritation caused by screens.

    3. Dry Eye Syndrome

    Dry eye syndrome occurs when there is insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation, resulting in an unstable tear film on the eye surface that cannot adequately moisturize the eyes, causing dryness and itching. Symptoms may include eye fatigue, blurred vision, redness, and pain. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications such as sodium hyaluronate eye drops, polyethylene glycol eye drops, and cyclosporine capsules to alleviate symptoms.

    4. Conjunctivitis

    Conjunctivitis is an inflammatory reaction caused by infection of the eyes with pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. It often causes dryness and itching in the eyes, accompanied by redness, pain, increased secretions, and possibly eye pain, photophobia, and tearing. It is recommended to follow medical guidance to use medications such as ganciclovir eye drops, acyclovir eye drops, and chloramphenicol eye drops for treatment.

    5. Keratitis

    Inflammation of the cornea caused by infection or injury leads to damage of the corneal surface cells, resulting in dryness and itching in the eyes, possibly accompanied by redness, tearing, and photophobia. It is recommended to follow medical guidance to use medications such as levofloxacin eye drops, ganciclovir ophthalmic gel, and compound neomycin sulfate eye drops for treatment.

    It is recommended to maintain good eye hygiene in daily life, regularly clean the eyelid margins, and avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent worsening of inflammation.