Why Do My Eyes Sting and Tear Up in the Middle of the Night?

The most common reason for eye stinging and tearing is eye dryness, which is usually associated with certain diseases such as dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis, and eye allergies. If the symptoms are severe and frequent, it is essential to promptly visit a hospital for examination to understand the specific cause. Avoid self-medicating with eye drops as they may not be suitable for the condition. Let's delve into these aspects.

1. Dry Eye Syndrome

If you frequently experience dryness, stinging, or itching in your eyes, you may be suffering from dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when the tear glands cannot produce tears of normal quantity or quality. Dry eye syndrome is quite common and becomes more prevalent with age.

2. Conjunctivitis (Red Eye)

Under normal conditions, the conjunctiva possesses certain defensive capabilities. However, when these defenses weaken or external pathogenic factors increase, conjunctival inflammation may occur, collectively known as conjunctivitis. Patients often experience a foreign body sensation, burning, itching, and tearing in their eyes.

3. Eye Allergies

Eye allergies are overreactions of the eyes to substances that are perceived as harmful. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) is perhaps the most common type of eye allergy, often triggered by exposure to pollen and other environmental factors. Symptoms of eye allergies may include itching, redness, eyelid swelling, and tearing. The primary step in treating eye allergies is to avoid exposure to allergens, such as staying indoors during pollen seasons, closing windows and doors, and installing filters on air conditioners to adsorb allergens like dust.

4. Blepharitis

Blepharitis, commonly known as inflamed eyelids, is a general term for inflammation affecting the skin of the eyelids, the hair follicles of the eyelashes, and their glands. It is often caused by bacterial infections and closely related to overall health conditions such as malnutrition, anemia, and insufficient sleep. People with refractive errors and chronic conjunctivitis are prone to developing blepharitis. Patients may often find their eyelashes scattered on their pillows when waking up. Blepharitis is more common in children and the elderly, and individuals who do not prioritize facial and eye hygiene are also susceptible to this condition.