Optometry: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

What is dry eye? And, who is affected? Symptoms and prevalence of dry eye Patients with: advancing age, hormonal imbalances, diabetes, autoimmune disease, rosacea, pharmacological side effects, ocular trauma 2. Tears and their function Basal tears, reflex tears, emotional tears Tear film: inner mucin, middle aqueous, outer lipid 3. Dry eye categories A. Aqueous tear production deficiency Autoimmune disease: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome Medications: antihistamines, beta blockers, diuretics, sleep aides, some pain relievers Decreased corneal sensation: herpes zoster, refractive surgery, diabetes Systemic dehydration: drink water! B. Excessive tear evaporation Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) Lipid layer: decreased lipid production or excessive production Scarring: ocular pemphigoid, trauma 4. Nutritional goals for dry eye Tamp down ocular and systemic inflammation Improve tear film composition A “dry eye” diet should include: • Omega-3 fatty acids: ALA, EPA, DHA Improve tear film stability and lid inflammation Especially important for MGD Food sources of omega-3 fatty acids • Omega-6 fatty acids: GLA Tamps down inflammation How to include GLA in your diet • Omega-7 fatty acids Improves tear osmolarity How to include omega-7 fatty acids in your diet • Vitamins A, C, D, E, phytonutrients Support of ocular surface and tear film Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects How to include Vitamins A, C, D, E, phytonutrients in your diet • Probiotics Gut health and inflammation Foods to promote gut health.

Biography

Dr Sandra Young is currently an optometrist at Visionary Kitchen: A Cookbook for Eye Health, USA, she is specialized at treating Dry eyes and she is a currently a member of Ocular Nutrition Society.

Email: sandy.young.od@gmail.com