You might not even notice your glassy eyes until you look in the mirror. Most of the time, they won’t impair vision or make it harder to see, so their appearance can be quite shocking.
Most of the time, glassy eyes are not much to worry about and can be treated rather easily. Other times, they may indicate a more severe condition you need to get a handle on.
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Glassy eyes make you look like you’re not all there. They appear glazed over or shiny and can arise from various causes. Sometimes, it can be as simple as seasonal allergies or one too many drinks. Other times, it can be a symptom of hypoglycemia.
Here are a few main causes:
- Dry eyes: Dry eyes can make your eyes look glassy and is relatively easy to treat. Because they are the result of limited tear production and poor lubrication, this cause of glassy eyes can be treated with eye drops, hydration, and taking breaks from screen time. Sometimes remembering to blink more can handle it.
- Allergies: Allergies can also change the appearance of your eyes. You’ll likely know it’s an allergic reaction if your glassy eyes are accompanied by symptoms like itchiness, redness, sneezing, and congestion. Eye drops with loratadine and/or diphenhydramine may help.
- Certain medications: Drugs, alcohol, and prescription medications all have the potential to cause glassy eyes.
- Dehydration: Being low on water can also cause glassy eyes. In some cases, drinking water will help, but in severe cases, a trip to the hospital may be necessary. Other symptoms include dry mouth, thirst, and lightheadedness.
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye): Pink eye could make your eyes turn glassy. This is a highly contagious infection and a doctor’s trip is recommended.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, common in diabetics, could be another reason your eyes are glassy. You would have other symptoms and should have a treatment plan in place with your doctor. A glass of juice may help.
You may be able to prevent glassy
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
