According to a study published in 2021, asthma patients are at a higher risk of developing dry eye disease than those who do not. The study proves its significance among Australians, Caucasians, and Asians.
However, the study can’t pinpoint the direct cause and effect of the risks to the patients. The results only suggest the chances of developing DED for those with asthma. But which factors influence the link between asthma and dry eye disease? Here are some ideas.
1. Race
The study concludes that the prevalence of dry eye disease is higher among Caucasian, Asian, and Australian asthmatic patients. The possible cause is the genetic predisposition to develop dry eye disease.
However, the study also suggests that the increased risk of dry eye disease among the mentioned countries may be due to race-related environmental factors. For instance, contact lenses in Australian and Asian populations may be one of the environmental factors.
2. Age
Another finding states that children with asthma are more likely to experience a tear on their eye film, which is one of the most common causes of dry eye in patients. Meanwhile, patients with allergic comorbidities are also more likely to develop dry eyes.
Since asthma requires long-term treatment for most people, the patients—especially the kids—will likely continue experiencing dry eyes for as long as they have asthma. However, it should automatically heal after the manifestations of asthma subside.
3. Asthma Medications
If you’re asthmatic, you’ll likely take inhaled corticosteroids, oral antihistamines, and LTRAs. These drugs are responsible for suppressing the airway inflammation caused by asthma. However, it has side effects, including dry eyes.
It’s also possible to develop dry eyes after taking beta-2 agonists. These drugs help to relieve the symptoms associated with asthma attacks. They’re also known to cause dry eyes. As a result, patients taking these medications should be on the lookout for potentially dry eyes.
4. Low Blood Oxygen Levels
There are instances where severe or advanced asthma cases will cause low blood oxygen levels in the patient. The scenario can deprive the front section of the eye of oxygen, potentially leading to dry eye syndrome.
If you have asthma, you must work with your doctor to manage your condition. It may include taking medication to control your asthma symptoms and avoiding triggers that can cause an asthma attack. You may also need to use supplemental oxygen if you have severe asthma.
Alleviating Dry Eyes
If you have dry eye syndrome, there are several things you can do to help relieve your symptoms. It may include using artificial tears, avoiding dry environments, and using a humidifier. In some cases, you may also need to use medication to help control the condition.
Patients experiencing dry eyes must talk to their doctor about the best treatment options. With the proper treatment against dry eye disease, you can help to alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Conclusion
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition affecting people of all ages. A lack of tear production causes it. Many symptoms can occur with dry eyes, including irritation, redness, blurry vision, burning sensation, gritty feeling, and excessive tearing.
There is no direct correlation between people with asthma and developing dry eye disease. However, the medications, treatments, and solutions offered to asthmatic patients may influence dryness in the eyes, which can develop in people having dry eyes.
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