Ways to Naturally Alleviate Dry Eye Symptoms
Over the past decade, the prevalence of dry eye disease has worsened due to factors such as an aging population, increased screen use, and the deterioration of the American diet.
Fortunately, scientists have been developing new solutions that do not rely on drug treatments. Here are some steps you can take to address dry eye...
What is dry eye disease (DED)? While it may seem like a simple question, the answer is quite complex.
"It's now considered an epidemic," stated Stephanie Marioneaux, an ophthalmologist based in Chesapeake, Virginia, back in 2013. Dry eye used to primarily affect postmenopausal women, but it now impacts individuals across all demographics.
Tears consist of three layers: an oily outer layer from the meibomian gland, a watery middle layer from the lacrimal gland, and an inner mucus layer from various glands and cells. Together, these layers form the tear film.
Dry Eye Disease as a Spectrum
In 1995, DED was defined as a tear film disorder resulting from either insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation. Despite the cause, this condition damages the eye's surface, leading to discomfort.
Initially viewed as a singular disease, the definition evolved in 2007 to include visual disturbance symptoms. Further changes occurred in 2017 when experts redefined DED as a spectrum of diseases.
DED is now characterized as a multifactorial disease of the eye's surface, involving tear film instability, excessive tear evaporation, inflammation, and neural pathway abnormalities within the nervous system.
Prior to the revised definition, there was no standardized diagnosis based on symptoms, and no single validated test or combination of tests to confirm dry eye.
Diagnosis often involves examining the eye's surface using a slit lamp, which provides a magnified view of the eye's surface, eyelids, and surrounding areas. Additionally, dye drops are used to evaluate tear film and identify areas of damage.
Despite these tests, dry eye diagnosis may not always align with a patient's symptoms. As a result, the prevalence of dry eye is estimated to range from 5% to 50% globally, with 16.4 million adults in the U.S. diagnosed and an additional six million experiencing symptoms without a formal diagnosis.
Universal Impact of Dry Eye
Dry eye issues are more common in older adults due to hormonal changes that reduce tear production. Postmenopausal women are especially prone to experiencing dry eye symptoms.
Regardless of the root cause, DED is recognized as a growing health concern worldwide, affecting not only the aging population but also young individuals. Dry eye symptoms are reported in 25% of high school students and in 30-65% of office workers.
Common dry eye symptoms include:
· Stinging and burning sensation
· Scratchy or gritty feeling in the eye
· Itching
· Redness
· Stringy mucus around the eye
· Blurred vision, especially during reading
· Excessive tearing
These symptoms can disrupt daily activities like reading, watching TV, driving, and working, potentially leading to increased levels of depression, anxiety, and stress.
While the exact cause of dry eye remains unclear, various factors can increase its likelihood, including:
· Contact lenses
· Increased screen usage
· Environmental factors like air pollution and low humidity
· Hormonal imbalances
· Medications that affect tear film composition
· Essential fatty acid deficiency
Hope for Those Suffering
The good news is that common causes of dry eye are modifiable, offering hope for relief. By addressing specific factors like contact lens use, screen time, indoor air quality, hormonal balance, and diet, individuals can mitigate dry eye symptoms.
One crucial factor affecting both eye health and overall well-being is diet.
Eye experts suggest that essential fatty acid supplementation may benefit dry eye conditions. Increasing intake of alpha-linolenic acid, found in nuts and seeds, while reducing consumption of processed foods rich in unhealthy fats, can support eye surface health.
Moreover, vitamin A plays a key role in maintaining mucous layer components on the eye surface, enhancing eye health.
Treatments for Dry Eye
While lubricating or anti-inflammatory eye drops are common treatments for dry eye, not all individuals respond positively to these options, and some may experience irritation. Alternative treatments include:
· Hyaluronic acid: Retains water and supports eye hydration.
· Trehalose: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and promotes eye health.
· Manuka honey and royal jelly: Offer potential benefits in managing dry eye symptoms.
· Acupuncture: Combined with lubricating eye drops, acupuncture can be effective in treating dry eye.
For individuals with meibomian gland dysfunction, therapies like vector thermal pulsation and intense pulsed light therapy are available to clear gland obstructions and improve oil flow.
Additionally, a plant native to Chile shows promise as a natural remedy for dry eye.
Maqui Berry for Dry Eye Relief
Aristotelia chilensis, known as maqui berry, boasts antioxidant-rich properties and strong anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown that a standardized maqui berry extract can improve dry eye symptoms.
Research conducted on Japanese participants demonstrated increased tear fluid volume and reduced dry eye symptoms after taking the extract. Subsequent studies confirmed its benefits in improving tear production and alleviating eye fatigue.
A recent study conducted in India revealed that patients taking maqui berry extract reported fewer eye problems, increased moisture production, and reduced inflammation in the eye.
Supplements for Dry Eye
Today, individuals dealing with dry eyes have a wide range of treatment options available.
Combining natural lubricating and anti-inflammatory eye drops with a maqui berry supplement can offer effective relief for dry eye symptoms. This comprehensive approach can help refresh tired eyes, reduce discomfort, and improve overall eye health.
Best regards,
The Team