Clewner & Kelly Eye Center, Dry Eye Syndrome, Our Team
Are you dealing with burning eyes, constant irritation, or light sensitivity that makes it hard to get through the day? Chronic dry eyes (dry eye syndrome) can affect your daily life and overall comfort. While medical treatments are available, simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in managing your symptoms.
At Clewner & Kelly Eye Center in Boca Raton, FL, we help patients find relief through a combination of professional care and practical habits. Call now to learn more or schedule an eye assessment.
Understanding dry eyes
Chronic dry eyes occur when your tears don’t provide enough moisture or evaporate too quickly. Common symptoms include dryness and burning sensations, a feeling of grittiness, and even sensitivity to light. Unfortunately, many environmental factors can contribute to this problem. The good news? Making targeted lifestyle adjustments can help with dry eye syndrome.
Reduce screen time and practice the 20-20-20 rule
Extended screen use is one of the biggest triggers for dryness. When you focus on a computer or phone, you blink less frequently, which reduces tear distribution across your eyes. To reduce screen time, we recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at a specific object 20 feet away for about 20 seconds. This rule gives your eyes a much-needed break and encourages normal blinking.
Control humidity in your environment
Did you know that dry indoor air can worsen dry eyes or increase light sensitivity? Low humidity causes tears to evaporate faster. To fix this issue, use a humidifier in rooms where you spend the most amount of time, particularly your bedroom or office. Avoid sitting in front of fans or air vents, which can dry out your eyes quickly.
Improve your nutrition
What you eat can impact tear quality and eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon reduce inflammation and support healthy tear production. If you don’t eat fish regularly, consider a high-quality fish oil supplement. Foods packed with vitamins A, C, and E also support eye health. Include leafy greens, carrots, citrus fruits, and nuts in your diet to provide essential nutrients.
Staying hydrated is equally important. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain overall hydration, which supports tear production. Try to limit caffeine and alcohol, as they contribute to dehydration and worsen burning eyes.
Other helpful lifestyle adjustments
Several other changes can help manage your symptoms at home:
- Take breaks from contact lenses and wear glasses more often
- Avoid smoke and environmental irritants
- Use artificial tears or lubricating drops as recommended
- Get enough sleep so your eyes can rest and recover
During an eye assessment at Clewner & Kelly Eye Center in Boca Raton, FL, we can recommend specific products and strategies.
When to seek medical help
While lifestyle changes can improve symptoms, some cases require medical intervention. If you experience persistent discomfort, severe sensitivity to light, or symptoms that interfere with your life despite making these adjustments, it’s time to meet with a medical professional. Our team can identify underlying causes of your dry eyes and determine whether treatments like prescription drops, punctal plugs, or other therapies are needed.
Find real relief today
If you’re struggling with burning eyes, light sensitivity, or other dry eye symptoms, Clewner & Kelly Eye Center in Boca Raton, FL can help. Our team provides comprehensive eye assessments and personalized treatment plans. Whether you need to reduce screen time, adjust your environment, or explore medical options, we’re here to guide you. Call now for an appointment and start finding relief.