Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatmentin Boston, MA

Dry eye syndrome is a prevalent condition that can lead to discomfort and affect daily life. At The Nielsen Eye Center, our specialized team is here to guide you through understanding and managing dry eye in Quincy, Norwell, Norwood, and Weymouth.
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to irritation, inflammation, and, if untreated, damage to the eye’s surface.
Common Causes of Dry Eye
Understanding the causes of dry eye syndrome is essential for effective treatment. Factors include:
- Age (more common in older adults)
- Medical conditions (e.g., autoimmune disorders)
- Medications that reduce tear production
- Extended screen time
- Environmental factors (wind, dry air, smoke)
- Hormonal changes
Recognizing Dry Eye Symptoms
Dry eye symptoms may vary but often include:
- A stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Redness in the eyes
- A gritty feeling or sensation of something in your eye
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Blurred vision, particularly when reading or using a computer
Diagnosing Dry Eye Syndrome
At The Nielsen Eye Center, we use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate your condition:
- Tear film breakup time tests
- Schirmer test to measure tear production
- Eyelid and cornea evaluation
Treatment Options for Dry Eye
Dry eye treatment is customized for your unique needs. Options include:
- Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears offer temporary relief for mild cases.
- Prescription Medications: Prescription eye drops or oral medications may help increase tear production or reduce inflammation in severe cases.
- Lifestyle Changes: Simple changes, such as using a humidifier, taking screen breaks, and staying hydrated, can help alleviate symptoms.
- Advanced Treatments: For chronic dry eye, we offer advanced solutions like punctal plugs to retain tears on the eye’s surface.
Explore our dry eye treatment options
Prevention and Management
While prevention isn’t always possible, these steps can help manage dry eye:
- Protect your eyes from wind and dry air with wraparound sunglasses
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen time: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
- Eat a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Why Choose The Nielsen Eye Center for Dry Eye Treatment?
At The Nielsen Eye Center, we provide personalized, state-of-the-art care for dry eye syndrome. Our experienced eye doctors use the latest tools and treatments to help patients in Quincy, Norwell, Norwood, and Weymouth find relief.
Each case is unique, and we take the time to thoroughly evaluate your condition and develop a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs and lifestyle.
Learn why patients trust The Nielsen Eye Center.
Take Control of Your Eye Health Today
Don’t let dry eye syndrome impact your quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms in Quincy, Norwell, Norwood, Weymouth, or nearby areas, seek professional help today.
Book your appointment now and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable eyes.