Stress makes dry eye problems worse.
- Stress worsens dry eye by increasing inflammation levels, which can exacerbate symptoms.
- Using hydrating drops, taking regular breaks from screens, and making environmental adjustments can help alleviate the effects of stress on the eyes.
- To diagnose dry eye, you should consult your ophthalmologist.
Pollution, cigarette smoke, dry or air-conditioned air, prolonged computer use… Dry eyes can be caused by various factors. And stress is one of them, explains Darren Gregorylprofessor of ophthalmology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, USA.
Stress exacerbates dry eye problems
“Stress can certainly exacerbate dry eye problems in a number of ways.he explains. The body experiences high levels of inflammation when you feel stressed, and inflammation is a contributing factor to dry eyes. When inflammation occurs, white blood cells are recruited to the surface of the eye where they begin to release inflammatory chemicals, which can worsen symptoms.“
Once dry eye is present, it must be treated. To do this, the first step is to make an appointment with your ophthalmologist who will establish the diagnosis and define the best treatment. Then, you must limit the risk factors, especially when the stress level is high.
“Much of what I do involves educating patients about the importance of taking breaks from looking at the computer, using moisturizing eye drops as part of their daily routine, and making environmental adjustments to minimize the effect of stress on the eyes.“, says Professor Darren Gregory.
As recalled health insurancewe must also act on the environment, for example, avoiding air conditioners and fans in favor of air humidifiers or stopping smoking.
Use preventive drops
“Don’t wait until your eyes are burning to use moisturizing drops, insists Professor Gregory. It’s a bit like waiting until your lips are chapped and cracked to start using lip balm. If you follow a treatment more often and develop a routine, you may find that dry eye symptoms aren’t as severe.“
Darren Gregory also recommends using a warm eye compress for about five to ten minutes, then gently massaging the eyelids or doing a few big blinks.
Finally, last piece of advice, certainly easier said than done: reduce stress in everyday life.It is important to take the time and prioritize your health, he concludes. Whether it’s yoga or limiting screen time, these small improvements can make a difference and potentially relieve the annoying symptoms that appear when we’re stressed.“
