Dry eye disease is a common eye condition characterised by insufficient tear production or rapid tear evaporation, leading to discomfort, redness, and vision disturbances. While various factors contribute to its development, recent studies have shed light on the connection between stress and dry eye disease. To know more about it, we spoke to Dr Ajay Sharma, Ophthalmologist and Chief Medical Director - EyeQ.
A Risk Factor for Dry Eyes: Psychological Stress
"Psychological stress is a factor that can make dry eyes worse. It can affect important processes in our body that keep our eyes healthy, like how well we sleep," said Dr Sharma.
A 2016 document on dry eye disease by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, highlighted that the occurrence of dry eye varies globally, ranging from 5% to 34% among individuals. Moreover, it was noted that the prevalence of dry eye tends to increase significantly as people age.
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Dry Eyes and Anxiety
Numerous factors, including stress, can have an impact on the eyes, causing a dry sensation, according to Dr Sharma.
"People who are stressed often have trouble falling asleep, and the body experiences unneeded stress when it doesn't get enough sleep or has a bad night's sleep," stated the doctor. He added that it could influence tear production, resulting in dry eyes.
Dr Sharma said that dry eye disease is typical in those who have stress disorders and sadness and anxiety.
He said that the body's processes that cause mental health problems can also cause dry eyes. The medications used to treat these problems may increase the chances of having dry eyes.
Symptoms of Dry Eyes
Dr Sharma said that in addition to ocular dryness, those with dry eye disease may endure eye discomfort or burning feelings, itchiness, light sensitivity, hazy vision, and red eyes.
Treatments of Dry Eyes
According to Dr Sharma, there are various therapy options you can go for to manage dry eyes.
"The severity of the ailment and its cause will both affect the course of treatment," he added. He suggested that The most common treatments for acute dry eye symptoms are lubricating eyes, gels, and ointments.
"If a patient's dry eyes are brought on by a medical issue, their doctor will order tests to identify the condition and may prescribe medicine to treat it," suggested the doctor.
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"Lacrimal plugs are another tool used by ophthalmologists to stop or slow down tear loss by obstructing the tear ducts located in the corners of the eyes. Additionally, they might advise surgery to permanently seal the tear ducts," said Dr Sharma.
Seeking a Doctor
It can be difficult to determine whether a burning eye feeling is serious or an isolated incident. So, it is important to think about calling an eye doctor immediately if you suffer from dry eye symptoms frequently or for an extended period.
Conclusion
"Mental stressors can contribute to eye dryness, which is a frequent symptom. However, it is not a major issue. But without treatment, it may cause consequences, such as corneal abrasion, ulceration, and eye inflammation," concluded Dr Sharma.
[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider to get a thorough diagnosis and treatment as per your health needs.]
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