Omega-3’s, artificial tears can help dry eyes
DEAR DOCTOR: My eyes are so dry, they often feel as if I have sand in them. I use drops, but they don’t always work. Is there anything else I can do?
DEAR READER: Some 14.5 percent of Americans report having regular dry eye problems, and the likelihood increases with age. The condition is more common in women, especially those undergoing menopause, as well as in people with certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. People who have had laser eye surgery, wear contacts or use medicated eye drops also have a greater rate of dry eyes, as do people who have allergies.
Some medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, niacin, estrogens and the arrhythmia drug amiodarone can cause dry eyes.
Eyelid health is also important. Normally, Meibomian glands in the eyelid produce an oily substance that prevents tear evaporation and helps trap tears upon the eyeball. Inflammation of the lid margin, termed blepharitis, causes these glands to
malfunction, leading to dry eyes. Treatment of blepharitis includes lid scrubs (using baby shampoo and a warm wet cloth), lid massage, warm compresses and artificial tears.
Speaking of artificial tears, these drops add viscosity to the fluid surrounding the eye and thus maintain a natural tear covering the eye. Adding one drop to each eye three to four times per day will improve symptoms. Some people have sensitivity to the preservatives in artificial tears, so using preservative-free tears may be helpful.
A newer eye drop, lifitegrast, decreases inflammation in the eye, with twice-a-day application leading to significant improvement of symptoms. Note, however, that the medication can also cause eye irritation and taste abnormalities.
Not all treatments are drug-related. Omega3 fatty acids with EPA, DHA and flaxseed oil can enhance tear production, decrease tear evaporation and improve overall symptoms. Similarly, diets deficient in omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to increased rates of dry eyes.