The state of the corneal epithelial basement membrane complex affects the worsening of dry eye disease, leading to frequent and recurring dry eye attacks. This complex is responsible for the tight adhesion between the epithelium and the matrix, but any trauma, dystrophy, or degeneration may cause its dysfunction, leading to epithelial shedding.
Treatment of dry eye may involve the use of compression packs, therapeutic soft contact lenses, epithelial removal, and even antibiotics and steroids to deal with inflammation. Complete healing usually takes 1 to 2 weeks.
There are many causes of dry eye, which are not only limited to the eyes, but also include systemic diseases, such as vitamin A deficiency, trachoma, Scheuer Gram syndrome, chemical and radiation conjunctival burns, etc., which may lead to dry eye. In modern life, factors such as high work pressure, endocrine disorders, old age, frailty, and menopause also increase the chance of suffering from dry eye syndrome.
Prevention and Improvement
Ophthalmologists often recommend that people with dry eyes use artificial tears, wear protective eyewear, or avoid contact with dry conditions. During long-term use of steroid drops, patients should pay attention to avoid side effects, such as glaucoma. However, when the problem cannot be completely solved, Taiwanese traditional Chinese medicine doctor Lin Mingyu suggests that patients can consider traditional Chinese medicine treatment because traditional Chinese medicine syndrome differentiation can provide personalized treatment plans from local and overall considerations.
Traditional Chinese medicine syndrome differentiation believes that the cornea belongs to the liver, and insufficient liver yin may cause dry eyes; in addition, people who like spicy and greasy food or drink excessive alcohol may cause damp and heat in the spleen and lung meridians, which may affect both eyes and cause dry eyes.
For people suffering from dry eye syndrome, Chinese medicine doctor Lin puts forward some suggestions, including maintaining a normal daily routine, avoiding staying up late, maintaining emotional stability, and avoiding excessive tearing. People who use computers or strain their eyesight for long periods should give their eyes a moderate rest. People who work in air-conditioned environments should keep a glass of water indoors and drink plenty of water. In terms of diet, it is recommended to eat more carrots, pork liver, eggs, milk, cod liver oil, spinach, and other foods. In addition, regular massage of the acupuncture points around the eyes or the use of hot towels can also help relieve discomfort. These suggestions are expected to have a positive effect in the daily management of dry eye disease.
