4 Natural Dry Eye Treatments that ACTUALLY WORK | Ophthalmologist @MichaelRChuaMD

Dr. Michael Chua introduces himself as a board-certified ophthalmologist and discusses the focus of the video, which is to review the best natural treatments for dry eye. He emphasizes the importance of understanding changes in environment, lifestyle, and diet to alleviate dry eye symptoms. Dr. Chua also mentions that he will present research-backed recommendations and encourages viewers to consider the data before deciding on treatments. The first treatment discussed is the impact of screen time on dry eye prevalence, highlighting studies that associate increased screen time with higher odds of dry eye disease.

The discussion continues on how screen time from devices like TVs, phones, and computers contributes to dry eye symptoms. Studies show that prolonged screen time, especially among children, correlates with increased rates of dry eye disease. The reason is the reduced blink rate during screen time, leading to a breakdown and evaporation of the tear film, which exposes and damages the cornea. Dr. Chua suggests using the 20-20 rule to combat this issue, which involves taking a 20-second blink break every 20 minutes and focusing on an object 20 feet away to restore the tear film.

Dr. Chua introduces moisture chamber glasses and goggles as a natural treatment for dry eye. These glasses have silicone or foam eye cups that form an insulated chamber around the eye, preventing tear evaporation and blocking airborne irritants. The effectiveness of moisture chamber glasses is supported by multiple research studies, which show improvements in tear film stability and blink rates, ultimately reducing dry eye symptoms. The video mentions a popular manufacturer, Vienna, and discusses the cost and custom options for these glasses, as well as more affordable alternatives available on Amazon.

The video emphasizes the strong association between dry environments and dry eye disease. Studies from Korea and the United States link low humidity with increased severity of dry eye symptoms. To combat this, Dr. Chua recommends using a humidifier to raise humidity levels, particularly in dry climates or heated indoor environments. He also advises avoiding direct air from vents pointing towards the face to prevent tear evaporation. The discussion then transitions to the benefits of warm compress for treating dry eye.

Dr. Chua delves into the benefits and correct application of warm compress for dry eye treatment. He explains the importance of meibomian glands and their role in tear production, and how warm compress can help improve their function. The video presents an optimized warm compress regimen, which involves using a heat source at 44 to 45 degrees Celsius (111 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit) for 20 to 25 minutes at least once a day. The regimen aims to melt the oil in the meibomian glands, allowing it to be released and protect the eyes. The video also includes a demonstration comparing a gel bead warm compress and an electrical warm compress device, ultimately recommending the latter for its ease of use and consistency.

The video discusses the mixed results of Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly known as fish oil, in treating dry eye. While some older studies suggested benefits, more recent and higher-quality randomized control trials, including one from the New England Journal of Medicine, found no significant improvement with Omega-3 supplementation. A Cochrane review also concluded that evidence supporting Omega-3 for dry eye treatment is uncertain and inconsistent. Dr. Chua advises against using fish oil for dry eye based on current evidence, but acknowledges that some individuals may still find personal benefit from it.

Dr. Chua addresses other products like blue-blocking glasses, Berry extract supplements, and carotenoid supplements, which have been marketed to help with digital eye strain and dry eye. A review of existing literature found no high certainty evidence supporting their use for these conditions. The video concludes with a summary of recommended natural treatments for dry eye: frequent blink breaks, moisture chamber glasses or goggles, humidifiers, and the optimized warm compress regimen. Dr. Chua encourages viewers to prioritize these treatments and to seek professional advice for personalized eye care.