Print Page

Dry Eye Sufferers May Find Relief with Caffeine

Author: American Academy of Ophthalmology
Published: 2012/04/18
Topic: Blindness and Vision Loss (Publications Database)

Page Content: Synopsis Introduction Main Item

Synopsis: Caffeine intake can significantly increase the ability to produce tears and could improve treatment of dry eye syndrome.

Introduction

Caffeine use may offer relief for millions of dry eye sufferers - Study published in Ophthalmology journal.

Main Item

Researchers at the University of Tokyo's School of Medicine have shown for the first time that caffeine intake can significantly increase the eye's ability to produce tears, a finding that could improve treatment of dry eye syndrome. This common eye condition affects about four million people age 50 and older in the United States. For many, dry eye syndrome is simply uncomfortable and annoying, but for others it escalates into a vision-threatening disease. All of the 78 participants in the new study produced significantly more tears after consuming caffeine than after taking a placebo. The study is available in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Dry eye syndrome involves malfunction of the rate of tear production, the quality of tears, and/or the rate of evaporate from the surface of the eye. Anyone can experience dry eye, though it is more common among women. Symptoms can include gritty, scratchy or burning sensations, excessive tearing, and/or production of stringy mucus.

The research team, by Reiko Arita, MD, PhD, was motivated by an earlier study that had shown a reduced risk for dry eye in caffeine users: 13 percent of users had the syndrome compared with nearly 17 percent of non-users. The team knew that caffeine was likely to stimulate tear glands, since it is known to increase other secretions, such as saliva and digestive juices. They also knew that people respond differently to caffeine, so they analyzed study participants' DNA samples for two genetic variations that play important roles in caffeine metabolism. Tear production proved to be higher in study subjects who had the two genetic variations.

"If confirmed by other studies, our findings on caffeine should be useful in treating dry eye syndrome," said Dr. Arita. "At this point, though, we would advise using it selectively for patients who are most sensitive to caffeine's stimulating effects."

The study subjects were divided into two groups:

One received caffeine tablets in the first session and a placebo in the second session, while the order was reversed for the other group. Tear volume was measured within 45 minutes of consuming the tablets. All sessions took place between 10 a.m. and noon, a time of day when tear production is usually stable. No subjects knew whether they received caffeine or the placebo. All abstained from caffeine use for six days prior to each session and used no drugs during the sessions. To be eligible for the study subjects had to be free of high blood pressure, dry eye syndrome, allergies that affect the eye, glaucoma, and other eye diseases and conditions that can interfere with tear production. The study also found that tear drainage rates were not affected by caffeine.

Dry eye can be very uncomfortable and interfere with vision. It's important to see an ophthalmologist if symptoms continue, since advanced cases can cause eye damage and permanent vision problems. Current treatment options range from simple warm compresses, eye washes and artificial tears to medications and tear drainage devices.

Explore Similar Topics

1 - - The new device is believed to be the most advanced navigation tech of its kind for people with visual impairment.

2 - - If you're born blind, you'll likely never have experienced a magic trick, so can we create tricks that could be enjoyed by people with blindness.

3 - - Research finds blinking plays a pivotal role in processing visual information thus adding to a growing body of evidence revising conventional views of vision.


Page Information, Citing and Disclaimer

Disabled World is a comprehensive online resource that provides information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility issues. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.

Cite This Page (APA): American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2012, April 18). Dry Eye Sufferers May Find Relief with Caffeine. Disabled World. Retrieved December 12, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/vision/dryeye.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/vision/dryeye.php">Dry Eye Sufferers May Find Relief with Caffeine</a>: Caffeine intake can significantly increase the ability to produce tears and could improve treatment of dry eye syndrome.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.