Dry Eye Treatment Options That Really Work: In-Office Therapy and At-Home Care

Dry eye is a common condition that often becomes more noticeable during the winter months. Cold temperatures, indoor heating, and increased screen time can leave your eyes feeling dry, gritty, tired, or irritated. Some people even experience excessive tearing as the eyes try to compensate for poor tear quality. While dry eye may seem like a minor annoyance at first, untreated symptoms can worsen over time and interfere with daily comfort and vision.

At Family Eyecare of Linden in Linden, New Jersey, our optometry team offers dry eye evaluations and treatment options designed to address both the underlying cause and the symptoms. From advanced in-office therapies to personalized at-home care, effective dry eye treatment is available — and it works.

In-office treatments that target the root cause

One of the most common contributors to dry eye is Meibomian gland dysfunction, a condition where the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked or inflamed. These oils are essential for keeping tears from evaporating too quickly.

In-office treatments may include radiofrequency therapy, such as Forma I, combined with gland expression to help open blocked glands and restore healthier tear film function. Some patients may also benefit from intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, which can help reduce inflammation around the eyelids and improve gland performance. These treatments are performed in a clinical setting and are designed to improve tear quality, not just temporarily relieve symptoms.

At-home care that supports long-term relief

Professional treatment is most effective when paired with consistent at-home care. Simple daily habits can play a meaningful role in managing dry eye symptoms.

Warm compresses help loosen oil blockages in the eyelids, while antibacterial lid sprays can support eyelid hygiene and reduce irritation. Your optometrist can recommend a home maintenance routine that fits your lifestyle and complements your in-office treatment plan.

Contact lens choices matter for dry eye

If you wear contact lenses and struggle with dryness, your lens type may be contributing to your symptoms. Daily disposable contact lenses are often a better option for patients with dry eye than monthly lenses, as they reduce buildup and improve comfort. Wearing the right type of contact lenses can make a noticeable difference in how your eyes feel throughout the day.

Eye strain, screens, and winter fatigue

Dry eye symptoms often overlap with digital eye strain, especially for patients who spend long hours at a computer. Anti-fatigue spectacle lenses and occupational progressive lenses are designed to reduce eye strain for near and intermediate work, helping computer users stay more comfortable and focused.

Protecting your eyes outdoors and on the road

Cold wind and bright winter sun can worsen dry eye symptoms. Prescription polarized sunglasses can help protect your eyes from glare and dryness during daytime driving, improving both comfort and visual clarity. These lenses are especially valuable for patients who experience eye fatigue or sensitivity to light.

It’s important not to confuse polarized sunglasses with photochromic (transition-style) lenses. While photochromic lenses work well outdoors, they do not darken effectively inside a vehicle. Polarized sunglasses provide consistent protection where it’s needed most, behind the wheel.

Don’t ignore worsening dry eye symptoms

Dry eye tends to be more noticeable in February and other winter months, but persistent symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. With the right combination of in-office treatment, at-home care, and vision solutions, most patients can experience meaningful, lasting relief.

If your eyes feel dry, irritated, or fatigued, schedule a dry eye evaluation at Family Eyecare of Linden. Also serving the surrounding areas of Elizabeth, Clark, Cranford, Scotch Plains, and Rahway, our optometry team can help you identify the cause of your symptoms and create a treatment plan that truly works, both for your eyes and your lifestyle.