Dry eyes syndrome affects 30% of the population
Dry Eyes Syndrome is the inflammation of the tear gland and affects 30% of the adult population - a typical sufferer being female and middle aged. It is one of the leading causes of visits to the optician.
Symptoms include:
- dry, gritty or scratching sensations in the eyes
- burning sensations
- constant itching
- redness
- blurred vision
- light sensitivity
The eyes are kept comfortable by a thin film of tears which coat them - this layer is comprised of three layers: the first layer is composed of mucin which ensures the watery middle layer is evenly distributed, the outer layer is made up of oils and fats produced by oil glands in the eyelids and it stops water from evaporating from the eyes.
There are a number of different factors that cause Dry Eyes Syndrome:
- Exposure to conditions that dry out the tear film
- Medications such as antihistamines and oral contraceptives
- Inflammation of the eyelids leading to abnormal tear production
- Structural changes to the eyes associated with the ageing process
- Fatty acid deficiencies particularly the omega 7 essential fats
- Health conditions such as diabetes and arthritis
- Hormonal changes
However the biggest causal factor are hormonal changes relating to perimenopause and menopause in women. There are oestrogen and testosterone receptors on the cornea of the eye and on the gland responsible for the production of the oils and fats.
Inflammation can be treated by Omega 3 and Hyaluronic acid supplementation
Symptoms of dry eyes might be a warning sign that your body is not detoxifying properly and thus inflammation occurs.
This inflammation connection is supported by most ophthalmic practitioners who encourage patients to increase their omega-3 intake by way of supplements such as fish oil capsules. Krill oil is especially worth considering for all the multiple protective benefits that the omega-3 essential fats offer to our bodies. For those suffering from Dry Eyes Syndrome, it might be worth considering an additional supplement containing omega-7 essential fatty acid.
Hyaluronic Acid is a compound that our bodies' manufacture during our youth. It is present in the gap between cells within the body where it is involved in transporting nutrients to the cells as well as removing cell waste material. The eye is filled with a gel-like liquid called the vitreous humour, which is made primarily of Hyaluronic Acid - the Hyaluronic Acid helps to give shape and volume to the eyes. During youth, the vitreous humour has a gel-like consistency, but as we begin to age, it becomes more watery, especially around the middle of the eye.
An additional property of Hyaluronic Acid is that it helps to remove inflammatory compounds and since Dry Eyes Syndrome is considered an inflammation associated concern, using Hyaluronic Acid Capsules has been shown to help alleviate the symptoms in many sufferers.
A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.