Living with Dry Eye Disease: Relief Strategies and Prevention Methods That Work

If you’ve ever felt like your eyes are constantly irritated, gritty, or just tired—even after a good night’s sleep—you’re not alone. Dry eye disease is something many people in Hyde Park and the surrounding Boston neighborhoods quietly deal with every day. At Cleary Square Eyecare, we see patients of all ages who are struggling with this condition, often not realizing there are real, effective ways to manage it. Whether your symptoms are mild or more persistent, understanding how to get relief can make all the difference.

What Causes Dry Eye Disease?

Dry eye disease can be caused by several factors: aging, screen time, medications, contact lens wear, hormonal changes, or environmental conditions. It happens when your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or when the tears they do produce evaporate too quickly.

That can lead to symptoms like:

• A scratchy, gritty feeling

• Redness or stinging

• Blurred vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Trouble wearing contacts comfortably

Simple Relief Strategies That Can Make a Big Difference

Before jumping to advanced treatments, there are small changes you can make at home or work that can ease symptoms. 

• Take Breaks from Screens: Many of us in Hyde Park and the greater Boston area spend long hours at computers. The 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can help reduce strain and blinking issues that contribute to dryness.

• Use a Humidifier: Especially in the winter months, running the heat can dry out the air in your home. A humidifier helps maintain moisture in the environment—good for your skin and your eyes.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking more water isn’t just good for your body—it helps keep your tear film healthy, too.

• Warm Compresses: Using a warm compress on your eyelids can help loosen up clogged oil glands, which are often the culprit behind dry eyes.

• Choose the Right Eyewear: If you're outside often, sunglasses with wraparound frames can protect your eyes from wind and reduce tear evaporation.

When to See Your Eye Doctor

If you’ve tried the basics—like artificial tears, warm compresses, and taking screen breaks—and still feel discomfort, it’s time to let us take a closer look. Dry eye isn’t always straightforward. In many cases, the root cause is something deeper, such as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, inflammation, or an underlying health condition that needs professional attention.

At Cleary Square Eyecare, we offer advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment options to address the source of your symptoms—not just the surface. Depending on your needs, we may recommend prescription eye drops or ointments to reduce inflammation, punctal plugs to help your eyes retain more natural moisture, or in-office therapies that gently unblock your tear glands. For more severe cases, scleral lenses may be a great option to protect and hydrate the surface of your eyes throughout the day.

Get to the Root of Your Dry Eye Symptoms at Cleary Square Eyecare

Living in Hyde Park means juggling work, family, and busy schedules—but you shouldn’t have to do all that with dry, uncomfortable eyes. We’re here to support your vision and comfort every step of the way. Whether you’re dealing with mild irritation or more severe dry eye symptoms, we’ll work with you to find real relief that fits your life.

Schedule a consultation with Cleary Square Eyecare, and let’s get to the root of your dry eye symptoms with a personalized treatment plan. Visit our office in Hyde Park, Massachusetts, or call (617) 361-0618 to book an appointment today.