Season 13 - Episode 42: Psychosomatics of Dried Eye Problems
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the surface of the eye lubricated. This can result in discomfort, itching, and blurred vision. While the exact cause of dry eye is not known, it is believed that stress and other psychological factors can play a role in its development and worsening.
Stress has been shown to impact the tear glands, causing them to produce fewer tears and leading to dry eye. In addition, some research suggests that psychological stress can lead to changes in the composition of tears, making them less effective at lubricating the eye.
To address the psychosomatic aspect of dry eye, it is important to focus on managing stress and promoting emotional well-being. This can involve practicing stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, and exercise, as well as seeking treatment for any underlying psychological conditions like anxiety or depression.
It's also important to practice good eye health habits, like using artificial tears, avoiding activities that can cause eye strain, like prolonged computer use, and avoiding environmental factors that can contribute to dry eye, like air conditioning or low humidity.