Washington: Caffeine use could provide relief to people suffering with dry eye syndrome and could enhance the eye’s ability to produce tears, a research revealed.
The syndrome is not only a nuisance for many, but it can affect vision. Researchers at the University of Tokyo’s School of Medicine found that all of the 78 people under the study after using caffeine produce considerably more tears than those who took placebo.
Women are the major victim of dry eye, though it is not uncommon in men. Symptoms can include gritty, scratchy or burning sensations, excessive tearing, and/or production of stringy mucus.
The research team was motivated by an earlier study which had concluded a reduced risk for the syndrome in caffeine users: 13 per cent of users had dry eye in comparison with nearly 17 per cent of non-users.
The team knew that people respond differently to caffeine, so they analysed 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. At this point, though, we would advise using it selectively for patients who are most sensitive to caffeine”s stimulating effects,” said Dr. Reiko Arita, the research head.
The study has been published in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription