What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome is an eye disorder that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the eye surface hydrated and comfortable. This can cause excessive drying of the eye surface, leading to bothersome symptoms such as red eyes, itching, redness, a gritty sensation in the eye, eye fatigue, heavy eyelids, and difficulty focusing.
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What factors can cause dry eye syndrome?
Numerous factors can contribute to this syndrome. Among them are endogenous factors, which occur when the lacrimal gland does not produce enough tears to keep the eyes hydrated. The main causes can arise from a wide variety of circumstances, including autoimmune diseases, hormonal conditions, and certain medical conditions. For example, it occurs during menopause due to decreased estrogen levels. These hormonal changes also contribute to increased sensitivity to environmental factors, such as dry air, which can irritate the eyes. Another example is Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune condition that can cause dry eye syndrome, as well as other dryness-related symptoms in different parts of the body. This pathology affects the glands that produce tears and saliva, resulting in dry eyes and mouth.
There are also exogenous factors, which occur when tears evaporate too quickly from the eye surface. Their main causes are climatic actions, such as exposure to dry air, wind, smoke, or other irritants, as well as age and prolonged screen exposure.
How to treat dry eye syndrome?
The best treatment is to determine the specific cause of the dryness to prevent it. Even so, nutrition can play an important role in the treatment and prevention of this syndrome, as certain nutrients can help improve eye health.
The use of preservative-free artificial tears helps maintain the necessary degree of moisture and lubricates blinking. But it is also true that some nutrients promote the healthy state of the ocular conjunctiva.
An example of this is vitamin A, which is necessary for vision and for maintaining basal tear and mucus production. In addition, corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells are directly exposed to environmental oxidation from sunlight and environmental pollutants. This is why the intake of vitamins C and E, along with minerals such as Zinc, Selenium, Manganese, and Copper, can contribute to the antioxidant protection of these cells. Also, among polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, Docosahexaenoic acid, known as DHA, can help maintain eye health, thereby improving eye lubrication.
However, it is important to note that a balanced diet and adequate nutrient intake are important for overall health, and there is no specific diet to treat dry eye syndrome. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and treatment.
