Dry Eye Treatment in Danvers, MA

If your eyes feel gritty, burning, or tired by the end of the day, you may be one of millions of people living with dry eye disease. At North Shore Eye Specialists, Dr. William Prentiss evaluates the root cause of your dry eye symptoms and builds a treatment plan around your specific needs — not a one-size-fits-all fix.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye happens when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears to stay lubricated. Common contributors include:

• Aging (dry eye becomes more common after age 50)

• Screen time and reduced blinking

• Seasonal allergies and dry indoor heat or air conditioning

• Contact lens wear

• Certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medication)

• Underlying conditions like blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction

Common Symptoms

• Burning, stinging, or gritty sensation

• Redness

• Excess tearing (a reflex response to dryness)

• Blurry vision that improves with blinking

• Sensitivity to light

• Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably

How We Diagnose Dry Eye

During a comprehensive eye exam, Dr. Prentiss evaluates your tear film, eyelid health, and the surface of your eyes to determine whether your dry eye is caused by insufficient tear production, poor tear quality, or gland dysfunction. Identifying the cause is the key to effective, lasting treatment.

Dry Eye Treatment Options

Depending on the severity and cause, treatment may include:

• Prescription or over-the-counter artificial tears

• Warm compress and lid hygiene routines for meibomian gland dysfunction

• Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops

• Punctal plugs to reduce tear drainage

• Nutritional guidance (omega-3s)

• Treatment of underlying blepharitis or allergy triggers

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is dry eye a permanent condition?

    Dry eye is often a chronic condition, but symptoms can usually be managed effectively with the right combination of treatments, so most patients see significant relief.

  • Can contact lenses cause dry eye?

    Yes. Contact lenses can reduce oxygen flow to the eye and disrupt the tear film, which is why many dry eye patients benefit from a contact lens refitting or a switch to a different lens type.

  • When should I see a doctor about dry eyes?

    If over-the-counter drops aren’t providing relief after a week or two, or your symptoms are affecting your daily life, it’s time for a professional evaluation.

  • Does insurance cover dry eye treatment?

    Coverage varies by plan and by whether treatment is considered medical versus routine vision care. Our staff can help verify your benefits before your visit.

Schedule a Dry Eye Evaluation

Don’t let dry, uncomfortable eyes affect your daily life. Call North Shore Eye Specialists at (978) 774-7033 to schedule your dry eye evaluation today.