It is very possible that you have a chronic inflammation of the eye lids, known as blepharitis.
Eye discomfort, redness, tearing, burning, itching, light sensitivity, and an irritating, sandy, gritty sensation that is worse upon awakening, are symptoms of blepharitis.
There are few types of blepharitis, but, you are more likely to have Staphylococcal blepharitis, that often leads to stye or chalazion formation.
Usually, treatment of blepharitis is a process, which must be carried out for prolonged periods of time.
Useful medications in the treatment of blepharitis may include topical antibiotics, topical corticosteroids, and oral antibiotics.
Treatment can be initiated with proper eyelid hygiene and topical (local) eyelid antibiotic ointment.
Visit your ophthalmologist!