In today’s digital era, where screen time is increasing due to smartphones and computers, dry eye disease has become a common ailment in ophthalmology clinics. Over-the-counter artificial tears are a common go-to for many to alleviate dry eye conditions—often on the recommendation of ophthalmologists. However, Dr. Zhongyi Hsin, the director of Dr. Hsin’s Herbal Clinic in Taiwan, emphasized that neglecting dry eyes can lead to more serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and even blindness. Dr. Hsin shared practical daily tips for eye protection, as well as massage and dietary health practices that can help prevent dry eye disease, on the Epoch Times’ “Health 1+1” program.
Dry eye disease is primarily attributed to an abnormal quantity and quality of tears. In addition to dryness in the eyes, symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, fatigue, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and a sensation of foreign objects in the eye. Notably, excessive tearing in the eyes is often an overlooked symptom of dry eye disease.
Susceptible groups for dry eye disease include individuals who spend prolonged hours using electronic devices, long-term wearers of contact lenses, those frequently exposed to air-conditioned environments, and individuals with autoimmune disorders. For instance, patients with lupus or rheumatoid arthritis may experience an immune system attack on their tear glands, leading to abnormal tear secretion and resulting in dry eye disease.
4 Potential Complications of Dry Eye Disease
Dr. Hsin emphasized that while dry eye disease is primarily caused by inadequate tear production and poor tear quality, prolonged neglect can cause significant harm to the eyes, potentially leading to the following complications:1. Corneal Degeneration
The cornea is the transparent tissue at the front of the eye and relies on the moistening and nourishment provided by tears to maintain normal function and vision. If dry eye symptoms persist, the cornea becomes vulnerable to external irritants, and even the slightest foreign object can cause abrasions. Additionally, some individuals with dry eyes develop the habit of rubbing their eyes, which can easily lead to corneal abrasions, ulcers, and scars. Over time, it may impact vision and, in severe cases, lead to blindness.2. Cataracts
Preventing cataracts involves reducing damage from ultraviolet rays as well as ensuring normal tear secretion. Tears play a crucial role in providing moisture and antioxidant protection to the eyes. Insufficient tears can accelerate the aging of the lens, increasing the risk of developing cataracts.3. Secondary Glaucoma
Glaucoma is caused by elevated eye pressure, which compresses the optic nerve. Dry eye disease can induce inflammation in the eyes, affecting the drainage of aqueous humor and resulting in increased intraocular pressure. This, in turn, may give rise to secondary glaucoma.4. Macular Edema
The macula is responsible for central vision, allowing us to see clearly. Dry eye disease can deprive the eyes of essential nutrients, thus reducing protection for the macula and increasing the risk of macular edema. Damaged cells in the macula can lead to pathological fluid leakage, ultimately causing blurry or distorted vision, darkening of the visual field, and, in severe cases, blindness.Self-Examination Methods for Dry Eye Disease
Dr. Hsin suggests using the following self-examination methods to check for dry eye disease and seeking medical advice and treatment promptly if needed.The Ocular Surface Disease Index can be done at home and categorizes dry eye disease into four stages based on scores. A score of 0 to 12 indicates no symptoms or normalcy, 13 to 22 indicates mild dry eye disease, 23 to 32 indicates moderate dry eye disease, and 33 to 100 indicates severe dry eye disease.
The assessment includes determining whether, over the past week, there has been dryness, light sensitivity, redness with bloodshot eyes, pain, a sensation of a foreign object, thick discharge, blurred vision, poor vision, and discomfort in the eyes while reading, watching TV, driving at night, or using a phone or computer. Additionally, it evaluates whether there has been eye discomfort in specific environments over the past week, such as during a storm or in dry or air-conditioned environments. Each symptom is assigned a score based on its frequency, ranging from 0 to 4, with higher scores indicating higher frequencies. The total score is then used to determine the presence of dry eye disease.
A Second and Simpler Test
Dr. Hsin also recommends a simpler method of testing for dry eyes: Try keeping your eyes open for 10 seconds. If you find yourself having to blink during this period, it indicates a high likelihood of dry eye disease.Treatment Methods for Dry Eye Disease
Dr. Hsin stated that Western medicine primarily treats dry eye disease by prescribing artificial tears to moisturize the eyes, along with some local treatments. In contrast, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) focuses on regulating the constitution based on the organs related to eye health. Therefore, for dry eye disease caused by menopause or autoimmune disorders, TCM treatment tends to be more effective.In TCM, there is a belief in the concept of “five organs corresponding to five fluids,” where, for instance, the heart is associated with sweat, the lungs with nasal mucus, and the liver with tears. Therefore, in the treatment of dry eye disease, TCM often begins by nourishing the liver. Additionally, TCM posits a connection between the liver and kidneys, with the kidneys nurturing the liver. Hence, for menopausal women with liver and kidney yin deficiency, the treatment of dry eye disease not only involves nourishing the liver but also incorporates kidney-tonifying formulas such as Qi Ju Di Huang Wan and Jiawei Xiaoyao San.
TCM believes that all aspects of the natural world exhibit corresponding yin and yang characteristics. These opposing characteristics manifest in various ways, such as the opposition of earth and sky, and cold and hot. Yin and yang energies are opposing yet interdependent, and the balance between them is essential. When yin and yang are balanced, individuals enjoy good health, vitality, harmony, and stability. However, when such balance is disrupted, various health issues can arise.
For patients experiencing dry eye disease due to autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis, in addition to yin deficiency, there is often the presence of inflammation and excess heat. Therefore, the use of Jiawei Xiaoyao San is recommended. The addition of Moutan Cortex (Mudanpi) and Gardeniae Fructus (Zhizi) in this formula helps clear liver heat, thus reducing the inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases.
There are many acupoints around the eyes. According to Dr. Hsin, the most effective acupoints for treating dry eye disease are the Chengqi and Jingming. Patients often feel immediate moisture in their eyes after receiving acupuncture treatment at these acupoints. Other acupoints around the eye orbit, such as Cuanzhu, Sizhukong, and Tongziliao, can enhance tear gland secretion. This, in turn, can alleviate dry eye disease arising from inadequate oil secretion by the tarsal glands due to eyelid infections or inflammation.
If dry eye disease has resulted in severe vision impairment, acupuncture on the Jingming and Qiuhou acupoints can provide significant benefits. However, Dr. Hsin advises that needling the Qiuhou acupoint, being a deeper acupoint, requires substantial training before it can be effectively utilized.
Eye Care Methods for Preventing Dry Eye Disease
To prevent dry eye disease, Dr. Hsin shared some eye care methods that can be incorporated into daily life.1. Maintain a Consistent and Proper Sleep Schedule
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body consists of 12 major meridians, each corresponding to a specific organ. These organs have specific “duty hours” during the day when the circulation of qi and blood in their corresponding meridians is most active. For example, from 11 pm to 1 am, the gallbladder meridian is dominant, followed by the liver meridian from 1 am to 3 am. Both the liver and gallbladder are associated with the eyes. Therefore, it is advisable to go to bed before 11 pm to ensure optimal rest for the eyes.2. Warm Hand Rubbing Compress
Rub your hands together for about 10 to 20 seconds to generate warmth, then close your eyes and cover them with your palms for 10 seconds. Repeat this process 10 times. Then, vigorously blink for one minute, repeating this three times. This practice can help facilitate smooth oil secretion from the eyelids.3. Reduce Screen Time
When staring at electronic screens, people tend to forget to blink, leaving their eyes wide open for extended periods. Continuous evaporation of tears during this period can lead to dry eye disease. Additionally, the posture of looking down at a mobile phone may contribute to neck strain and reduce blood flow to the brain and eyes, increasing the likelihood of dry eye.Prolonged use of colored or regular contact lenses not only increases the risk of dry eye disease but may also lead to damage to the cornea over time.
6. Remove Eye Makeup Thoroughly
Look out for signs of eyelid inflammation. Ensure thorough makeup removal and be mindful of extended use of false eyelashes. Maintaining good eye hygiene is essential to reduce the risk of dry eye disease.7. Use Artificial Tears
Dry eye disease is more prevalent during the fall and winter seasons when temperatures drop and the air becomes drier. Furthermore, air pollution can impact tear quality, leading to dry eyes. Applying artificial tears promptly can help protect the eyes.8. Eat Right
Nutrients in food can enhance the secretion of tears and oils from the eyelid glands. Dr. Hsin suggests that a diet rich in foods with DHA, EPA, and omega-3 (such as egg yolks and fish oil), as well as vitamins A, C, E, and anthocyanins, can contribute to eye health. Foods high in anthocyanins include purple and red fruits like mulberries, red grapes, and blueberries. Notably, TCM texts mention that foods like lamb liver, fish liver, and chicken liver can be beneficial for nourishing the eyes. White fungus and black fungus are also believed to have the effect of nourishing yin and moisturizing the eyes.
Dr. Hsin believes that the most effective way to protect the eyes is by consuming chrysanthemum tea with goji berries. Goji berries nourish the yin and support kidney function, while chrysanthemum helps clear liver heat. The combination of these two ingredients is beneficial for improving vision and preventing presbyopia. Additionally, goji berries contain anthocyanins, contributing to overall eye health. It is recommended to eat the soaked goji berries after drinking the tea for greater effectiveness.
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