Ayurvedic Treatment for Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are a common and uncomfortable condition that affects millions of people around the world. But what causes dry eyes, and how can you treat them? In this article, we will explore the types, causes, symptoms, and treatments of dry eyes, as well as some tips to prevent them.

What are dry eyes?

Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort and vision problems. Tears are essential for keeping the eyes healthy and moist. They also help protect the eyes from infections and foreign objects.

The tear film is the thin layer of fluid that covers the surface of the eye.
It is composed of three layers: an oily layer, a watery layer, and a mucus layer.Each layer has a specific function and contributes to the stability and quality of the tear film.

The oily layer is the outermost layer of the tear film. It is produced by the Meibomian glands, which are located in the eyelids. The oily layer prevents the tears from evaporating too quickly and keeps the tear film smooth and clear.

The watery layer is the middle layer of the tear film. It is produced by the lacrimal glands, which are located to the side of the eyes. The watery layer makes up most of the volume of the tears and helps wash away any debris or irritants from the eyes.

The mucus layer is the innermost layer of the tear film. It is produced by the conjunctiva, which is the transparent tissue that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. The mucus layer helps spread the tears evenly over the eye and allows them to adhere to the eye surface.

What are the types of dry eyes?

There are two main types of dry eyes: aqueous tear deficiency and evaporative dry eye.

Aqueous tear deficiency occurs when the lacrimal glands do not produce enough watery tears to keep the eyes moist. This can result in dry, irritated, and inflamed eyes. Aqueous tear deficiency can be caused by various factors, such as aging, hormonal changes, autoimmune diseases, or medications.

Evaporative dry eye occurs when the Meibomian glands do not produce enough oily tears to prevent the tears from evaporating too fast. This can result in unstable and poor-quality tears that do not protect the eyes adequately. Evaporative dry eye can be caused by various factors, such as eyelid disorders, environmental conditions, or contact lens wear.

Dry eyes can cause a range of symptoms that can affect the comfort and function of the eyes. Some of the common symptoms of dry eyes are:

● Burning, stinging, or scratchy sensation in the eyes

● Feeling of having something in the eyes

● Redness, irritation, or inflammation of the eyes

● Sensitivity to light or glare

● Blurred vision or difficulty focusing

● Eye fatigue or strain

● Difficulty wearing contact lenses or eye makeup

● Increased risk of eye infections or complications

What are the causes of dry eyes?

Dry eyes can be caused by a variety of factors that can affect the quantity or quality of the tears or the tear film. Some of the common causes of dry eyes are:

● Aging: As people get older, they tend to produce fewer and less effective tears. This is especially true for women who go through menopause and experience hormonal changes that can affect tear production and quality.

● Diseases: Some diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, thyroid disease, and lupus, can affect the immune system and cause inflammation or damage to the tear glands or the eye surface. This can result in reduced or abnormal tear production and dry eyes.

● Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure drugs, and oral contraceptives, can interfere with the production or function of tears. This can cause dry eyes as a side effect of the medication. If you are taking any medication that can cause dry eyes, you should consult your doctor about the possible effects on your eyes and the alternatives or solutions available.

● Environmental factors: Some environmental factors, such as dry air, wind, smoke, dust, or air conditioning, can irritate the eyes and make them lose moisture faster. This can cause the tears to evaporate too quickly and the eyes to become dry and uncomfortable. These factors can also increase the exposure of the eyes to allergens or pollutants that can trigger dry eyes.

● Digital devices: Spending too much time on digital devices, such as computers, smartphones, or tablets, can cause dry eyes. This is because we tend to blink less when we stare at screens, which reduces the spread of tears over the eyes and the lubrication of the eye surface. This can also cause eye strain and fatigue, which can worsen the symptoms of dry eyes.

● Contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses can cause dry eyes by reducing the oxygen supply to the eyes, disrupting the tear film, or irritating the eye surface. Some contact lenses can also absorb the tears and cause them to dry out faster. If you wear contact lenses, you should choose the ones that are designed for dry eyes and follow the proper hygiene and care instructions. You should also limit the wearing time and remove the lenses before sleeping.

How are dry eyes diagnosed?

If you have any signs or symptoms of dry eyes, you should see an eye doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The eye doctor will examine your eyes and ask you about your medical history, medications, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The eye doctor may also perform some tests to measure your tear quantity and quality and to assess the condition of your eyes. Some of the common tests for dry eyes are:

● Schirmer test: This test measures the amount of tears produced by the eyes. A small strip of filter paper is placed under the lower eyelid for five minutes, and the wetness of the paper is measured. A low wetness indicates a low tear production and dry eyes.

● Tear breakup time: This test measures the stability of the tear film. A drop of fluorescein dye is placed in the eye, and the eye doctor observes with a special blue-colored light, how long it takes for the tear film to break up after blinking. A short breakup time indicates a poor-quality tear film and dry eyes. The dye will highlight any areas of dryness, abrasion, or infection on the eye surface.

How can dry eyes be prevented?

Dry eyes can also be prevented or managed with some lifestyle changes, such as

● Drinking enough water to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration, which can affect tear production.

● Eating a balanced diet that includes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, flaxseeds, or walnuts, which can help reduce inflammation and improve tear quality.

● Wearing sunglasses or goggles to protect the eyes from wind, dust, or sun exposure, which can dry out the eyes.

● Avoiding exposure to direct air flow from fans, heaters, or air conditioners, which can reduce the humidity and moisture in the air.

● Taking frequent breaks and blinking more often when using digital devices, which can help moisten the eyes and prevent eye strain.

● Applying warm compresses or gently massaging the eyelids, which can help loosen the debris and oil in the glands and improve tear flow.

● Avoiding or limiting the use of contact lenses, which can irritate the eyes and interfere with tear production. If you wear contact lenses, you should choose the ones that are designed for dry eyes and follow the proper hygiene and care instructions.

Ayurvedic View on Dry Eyes 

As per ayurvedic point of view, the symptoms of dry eye are compared to Sushkakshipaka, a disease affecting the entire eye. It is caused by the simultaneous vitiation of Vata Dosha and Pitta Dosha, which leads to inflammation, heat, and dryness in the eyes. Sushkakshipaka can manifest by various factors, such as:

● Exposure to hot, dry, or windy weather, which can dehydrate the eyes and the body

● Excessive use of digital devices, such as computers, smartphones, or tablets, which can strain the eyes and reduce the blinking rate

● Consumption of spicy, sour, salty, or fermented foods, which can increase the acidity and heat in the body and the eyes

● Intake of alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, or drugs, which can deplete the moisture and vitality of the eyes and the body

● Stress, anger, anxiety, or frustration, which can generate heat and tension in the eyes and the mind

● Aging, hormonal changes, or menopause, which can affect the production and quality of the tears

● Certain diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders, which can impair the circulation and function of the eyes

Sushkakshipaka has the following features:

● Friction, piercing, and pricking pain

● Increased thickness and dryness of the eyes

● Difficulty in opening and closing of the eyelids

● Desire for cold comforts

● Blurred vision

How are dry eyes treated according to Ayurveda?

Dry eyes can also be prevented or managed with some lifestyle changes according to ayurveda, such as:

● Drinking enough water to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration, which can affect tear production and eye health.

● Eating a balanced diet that includes foods that are sweet, bitter, and astringent in taste, which can balance Vata and Pitta Dosha and nourish the eyes. Some of the foods that are good for the eyes are milk, ghee, honey, almonds, dates, carrots, spinach, cucumber, rose, and fennel.

● Avoiding foods that are spicy, sour, salty, or fermented, which can aggravate Vata and Pitta Dosha and cause dryness and heat in the eyes. Some of the foods that are bad for the eyes are chili, vinegar, pickles, cheese, yogurt, garlic, onion, and alcohol.

● Practicing yoga and meditation, which can relax and calm the eyes and the mind, and also improve the blood circulation and oxygen supply to the eyes. Some of the yoga poses and exercises that are good for the eyes are sun salutation, palming, eye rotation, eye blinking, and eye focusing.

● Wearing sunglasses or eye protection, which can shield the eyes from the harmful effects of the sun, wind, dust, or pollution, which can dry out and damage the eyes.

● Using a humidifier or avoiding direct air flow from fans, heaters, or air conditioners, which can reduce the humidity and moisture in the air and the eyes.

● Taking frequent breaks and blinking more often when using digital devices, which can prevent eye strain and dryness, and also moisten and refresh the eyes.

● Applying warm compresses or gently massaging the eyelids, which can help loosen the debris and oil in the glands and improve tear flow and quality.

● Avoiding or limiting the use of contact lenses or eye makeup, which can irritate the eyes and interfere with tear production and quality. If you wear contact lenses, you should choose the ones that are designed for dry eyes and follow the proper hygiene and care instructions.

Conclusion

Dry eyes are a common and treatable condition that can affect anyone at any age. Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort, irritation, and vision problems. According to ayurveda, dry eyes are mainly caused by an imbalance of the pitta dosha, the fire element that governs the eyes, metabolism, and digestion.

Dry eyes can be diagnosed by an ayurvedic practitioner, who will examine the eyes and the body, and perform some tests to assess the quantity and quality of the tears and the condition of the eyes. Dry eyes can also be prevented or managed with some lifestyle changes according to ayurveda, such as drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet, practicing yoga and meditation, wearing sunglasses, using a humidifier, taking breaks from digital devices, applying warm compresses, or avoiding contact lenses.

FAQ

Q : Can dry eyes affect my vision, and if so, how?
A : Yes, dry eyes can affect vision, particularly if left untreated or if the condition becomes severe. When the eyes are dry, the tear film, which normally lubricates the surface of the eye and helps maintain clear vision, may become unstable or inadequate. This can lead to several vision-related issues.

Q : Is dry eye a vitamin deficiency?
A : Vitamin A deficiency, which usually occurs in developing countries, can cause an increase in dry eye. By adding foods rich in Vitamin A, like carrots, pumpkins, apricots, spinach, tomatoes, dairy products and liver, you can prevent the development of this condition.

Q : Can dry eye be cured?

A : Dry eyes can leave your eyes feeling itchy or irritated. Eye drops can treat symptoms, but there's no cure. In some cases, a doctor may recommend an eye procedure, such as minor gland salivary autotransplant.

Q : Is it true that Dry Eye symptoms seem to be more severe in the winter than in the warmer spring and summer months?

A: Due to the decrease in humidity, it’s not abnormal for the eyes to feel additional discomfort during cooler months. People may also notice that if they travel to a drier climate, their eyes feel worse.

Q : Can drinking water stop dry eyes?

A : Drinking more water can help your body produce a healthy volume of tears, which is important to prevent dry eyes

Q : Is Milk good for your eyes?

A : Not only do they contain Vitamin A but also Zinc. Therefore, incorporating food items like milk and yogurt becomes vital for maintaining good eyesight