Overview of Dry Eye Disease

Prevalence in Different Countries

Dry eye disease is highly prevalent in Europe and the United States. A 2022 meta-analysis of three U.S. studies found a prevalence ranging from 5.3% to 14.5%, with a pooled prevalence estimate of 8.1%. With increasing use of digital devices, the proportion of young patients is rising, and the condition is receiving growing attention.

Global epidemiological studies show that the prevalence of dry eye disease ranges from 5% to 50%, with higher rates in Asia, particularly in China (including Tibet) and South Korea. In Southeast Asia, hot and dry climates as well as air pollution contribute to a significant rise in prevalence.

Due to urbanization and a faster pace of life, increased use of electronic devices, wearing contact lenses, undergoing eye surgery, aging, diabetes, lacrimal gland obstruction, and Sjögren’s syndrome are all contributing factors to dry eye disease.

Main Harms

1. Ocular Surface Damage
Long-term tear deficiency can damage the cornea and conjunctiva, manifesting as ocular surface erosion and inflammation, and in severe cases, leading to infection and vision impairment.

2. Visual Impact
Dry eye disease causes eye discomfort and visual fatigue, impairing reading and work efficiency. In severe cases, vision fluctuation occurs, significantly reducing quality of life.

3. Chronic Pain
Persistent dryness, burning, and foreign body sensation cause chronic pain and psychological stress, affecting mood and sleep quality.

Emerging Treatments

Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy promotes the restoration of lacrimal gland function and repair of ocular surface tissues, significantly improving tear secretion and ocular surface conditions.

① Promote regeneration of lacrimal gland cells

② Suppress ocular surface inflammation

③ Improve corneal epithelial repair

④ Enhance tear film stability

⑤ Relieve symptoms and reduce recurrence.

This therapy offers a new treatment direction for patients with refractory dry eye disease, with its efficacy gradually gaining clinical recognition.

Conventional Treatments

1. Artificial Tears and Moisturizing Therapy
Artificial tears are the most common method to relieve dry eye disease, providing immediate lubrication and reducing discomfort. Selecting suitable moisturizers and eye drops can effectively relieve mild to moderate symptoms.

2. Anti-inflammatory Therapy
For ocular surface inflammation, topical anti-inflammatory medications such as cyclosporine eye drops can regulate immune responses, improve tear quality, and prevent disease progression.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments
Reducing prolonged screen time, maintaining proper humidity, avoiding wind and smoke exposure, and developing good eye care habits help alleviate dry eye symptoms.

4. Warm Compresses and Meibomian Gland Massage
Applying warm compresses and performing massage promote meibomian gland secretion, improving tear quality and lipid layer stability, preventing accelerated tear evaporation, and easing dryness.

5. Nutritional Supplements
Consuming foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin A helps improve ocular blood circulation and tear composition, enhancing treatment outcomes.

6. Surgical Treatment
For severe cases of tear secretion disorders, lacrimal duct occlusion or other surgical interventions may be considered to protect the ocular surface and reduce tear loss.

Conclusion

As a chronic ocular disease, dry eye disease can cause severe ocular surface damage and vision impairment if left untreated. Experts at the United Life International Medical Center emphasize that combining stem cell therapy with conventional treatments can more effectively relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Patients should pay attention to early diagnosis and standardized treatment, actively follow medical advice, and prevent disease progression.