Eye color outside of the iris may also be symptomatic of disease. Yellowing of the sclera (the whites of the eyes) is associated with jaundice, and may be symptomatic of liver diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. A blue coloration of the sclera may also be symptomatic of disease.
Dry Eye Syndrome. Dry eye syndrome often causes a sandy, gritty sensation in the morning that usually gets worse throughout the day. Dry eyes of varying severity can cause uncomfortable, irritating symptoms. If your eyes are dry, your eyes may burn much more than they itch.
Corneal abrasions and corneal ulcerations are also common causes of eye pain. The cornea is the transparent surface of the eye. Abrasions occur from scratches to the surface of the cornea, such as from trauma, a foreign body in the eye or overuse of contact lenses. Ulcerations occur from infections or abrasions.