Trying to focus at your desk or enjoy an afternoon outdoors, but your eyes keep watering or feeling irritated? Persistent dryness and light sensitivity can make even simple tasks a challenge. 

At New England EyeWorks, we offer advanced dry eye treatment in Keene to help your eyes feel comfortable and healthy again. By uncovering the cause of your dryness, our experienced eye doctors can create a personalized plan that goes beyond short-term fixes. 

How dry eye causes sensitivity to light 

Light sensitivity, also called photophobia, often occurs when your tear film is insufficient or unstable. Without proper lubrication, even normal lighting can cause discomfort. Common signs include: 

• Squinting in bright sunlight or indoor lighting 
• Headaches linked to visual strain 
• Red, watery, or itchy eyes 
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably 

Dry eye is often overlooked as a cause of light sensitivity, which is why people may struggle for months before seeking professional care. 

Advanced dry eye treatments 

During a comprehensive eye exam at New England EyeWorks, our eye doctor checks your tear production, eyelid health, and the surface of your eyes. Sometimes over-the-counter eye drops aren’t enough, and this thorough evaluation helps us create a treatment plan that’s customized just for you. 

In-office treatments we offer: 

• IPL therapy – Reduces inflammation and improves natural tear production 
• BlephEx® – Gently removes debris from eyelid margins to enhance tear quality 
• TearCare® – Applies controlled heat to unclog blocked meibomian glands 
• CAM360 AmnioGraft™ amniotic membrane – Promotes healing and reduces ocular surface irritation 
• LACRIFILL® – Lubricates and protects the eye for long-lasting comfort 

If you suffer from chronic dry eye and wear contact lenses, you may need a different type of lens to stay comfortable. Scleral lenses can provide relief for severe cases and help protect your eyes while improving vision.  

At-home strategies to support your eyes 

Alongside in-office treatments, you can reduce discomfort by: 

• Using preservative-free lubricating drops recommended by your eye doctor 
• Wearing sunglasses outdoors and considering blue-light filtering lenses indoors 
• Taking regular breaks from screens using the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, focus on something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. 
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a diet rich in omega-3s to support tear production 
• Following your personalized treatment plan consistently 

Other causes of light sensitivity 

While dry eye is a common cause, other factors may contribute to eye discomfort: 

• Migraines or chronic headaches 
• Eye inflammation or infection, such as conjunctivitis or uveitis 
• Corneal issues, including scratches or irritation from contact lenses 
• Medication side effects that increase light sensitivity 
• Post-surgical changes after procedures like LASIK 

Knowing these details allows our team to find the solution that will best relieve your symptoms. 

Experience lasting relief and protect your vision 

Treating dry eye and light sensitivity improves both comfort and quality of life. You can work at your computer longer, enjoy outdoor activities without squinting, and keep your eyes healthier. 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at New England EyeWorks in Keene to determine the cause of your dryness and explore personalized dry eye treatment options. Your eyes deserve lasting comfort and protection.