Diseases & Conditions
Soothing dry eyes
New research finds caffeine may help.
For the millions of people who suffer from dry-eye syndrome—a low moisture level in the eyes that causes a stinging, burning sensation—a solution may be waiting in a cup of coffee or tea. In a study published in the journal Ophthalmology, people who consumed caffeine produced more tears than those who took a placebo. "This is an interesting study, the first I know of which addresses the effect of caffeine directly on tear volume," says Dr. Jason Rothman, an ophthalmologist at Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston. "There is evidence from other studies which suggests caffeine may increase other secretions, such as stomach acid and saliva. But the effects of caffeine may be different from person to person."
The importance of tears
Dry-eye syndrome causes more than just a reduction in the amount of tears. It's also associated with a change in the tear ingredients. Tears are a mixture of oils, water and mucus, which help protect our eyes from infection by keeping them lubricated and washing away dirt and other particles.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
