Depression and dry eye disease: Research finds new link

June 14, 2023 — Doctors often notice infected patients dry eye disease (DED) Low mood report. Now, new research shows that the link between dry eye disease and depression It may actually be very common.

that it estimated that 5% to 50% of people globally have DED; More than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with this condition. Dry eye disease occurs when you don’t have enough tears covering your cornea, or your tears evaporate too quickly, according to Cleveland Clinic.

There has been a previous relationship between depression and dry eye disease Established, but the details of patients’ symptoms are now clearer. new Stady Saudi researchers found that out of 401 people surveyed, 36.7% developed generalized anxiety disorder, and 23.7% were diagnosed with depression, stress, or anxiety.

newly Stady It also found that patients diagnosed with depression had more severe symptoms of dry eyes, which can upset them emotionally.

“Depression isn’t just ‘in the mind’ – it’s a multi-system condition that can affect many body systems and disrupt their normal function,” he said. Howard L. Foreman, MDMD, a psychiatrist at Montefiore Health System and professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City.

Twenty-nine percent of adults in the United States to survey This year he said they had been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives.

“Dry eye disease can get in the way of daily enjoyment of life, which can exacerbate symptoms of depression,” he said. Dipinder K Dhaliwal, MD, He specializes in acupuncture and Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “Whether dry eye disease causes depression or depression causes dry eye disease is chicken or egg, but the two conditions are definitely related.”

Patients with these conditions can work with their doctors to make the changes they need to improve symptoms of depression and generalized anxiety disorder.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe, and may indicate the condition if it lasts two weeks or longer, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Signs include:

sadness
Loss of interest or pleasure in the things you love to do
Eating too much or too little
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Others notice that you seem agitated or lethargic
Difficulties in thinking or making decisions
Lack of mental focus
Thinking of suicide or death
Sleep disorders.

said Dhaliwal, MD, director of refractive surgery and director of the Cornea Service at the UPMC Vision Institute and director of the Center for Integrated Eye Care at the University of Pittsburgh. Chinese Stady It was found that during the stressful days of the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of sleep increased the symptoms of DED in the subjects being studied, causing them to feel more depressed and anxious.

What are the symptoms of dry eye?

According to the National Eye Institute, dry eyes may cause:

A gritty or gritty feeling in your eye
Sensation of something in your eye
burning or stinging;
red eyes
blurred vision
photosensitivity

What is the physical relationship between depression and dry eye disease?

The exact mechanism has not been fully established. But inflammation in the body may be one of the main causes.

“Inflammation of the ocular surface could indicate an increased risk of depression,” Dhaliwal said.

Researchers I think so Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors Antidepressants that increase serotonin in your system and reduce symptoms of depression may also increase inflammation, which in turn can exacerbate symptoms of DID.

“Some antidepressant medications work by blocking signals between nerve cells, which can reduce the eye’s natural response to adequate tear film production,” says Jennifer Tsai, a board-certified optometrist and founder of LINE OF SIGHT, a practice. Eye Care of New York City, “As a result, this reduces the amount of tears produced, and leads to dry eyes.”

Another important factor may be lifestyle.

“Depression and dry eyes are often associated with external changes,” said Tsai. “Depression can change your habits, leading to increased screen time and poor eating habits, for example. These changes can lead to increased tear evaporation, and inevitably dry eyes.”

research It has also been found that depression can cause changes in the way a patient processes pain, leading to more severe symptoms of DED. This can lead to chronic physical discomfort, which also affects your emotional state.

“Having trouble keeping your eyes open, or having blurry vision, can get in the way of activities that bring you joy,” Foreman said. “This can lead to more social isolation, and less fulfilling days.”

What can you do to improve symptoms when depression and dry eye occur at the same time?

Note the circumstances that seem to make you feel worse. Talking with a therapist about your emotional frustration can be very helpful. Also, Foreman said, “If you develop dry eyes soon after starting the medication, you should let your doctor know.”

However, you will not need to stop taking the medication that you need.

“We never stop antidepressants, because depression is a debilitating disease,” Dhaliwal said. Alternatively, a new type of drug may be warranted. And your doctor can help you focus on improving your eye symptoms.

“Non-medication treatments for dry eyes — such as warm compresses and eyelid hygiene — can help a lot,” Dhaliwal said. “An orally taken omega-3 fatty acid helps not only with dry eyes, but also with mood.”

Eyelash exercises It can help lubricate the surface of your eyes. You can also reduce stress through acupuncture, stay physically active, and eat a healthy, balanced diet.

As Dhaliwal sums it up: “All of these steps can help you feel better and take better control of your life.”

In closing, let us remember that every ending brings forth a new beginning. As we conclude this article, may we embrace the lessons learned, the insights gained, and the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, let us step forward with courage and optimism, for the journey continues , and our potential knows no bounds.

Source_by_webmd.com/

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