Tear film covers the outer surface of the eye, providing nourishment to the tissues that cover the eye. Some people experience dry eye, a condition that results when the eye cannot produce enough tears, or produces tears of a poor quality. Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce the risk of dry eye symptoms. Knowing about dry eye and increasing your intake of omega-3 will help you discuss the potential benefits with your eye care provider.
Symptoms
Dry eye often results in redness and a burning feeling on the surface of your eye. You may also experience a foreign body sensation, as if you have something in your eye. Many people also have excessive watering, causing tears to run down their cheeks. This tearing is the body's response to dryness, but this over-production of tears washes away the tear film, often exacerbating symptoms. Dry eye may also cause blurry vision, but a series of rapid blinks will often clear vision.
Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids may offer some relief from the symptoms of dry eye. Omega-3 may help reduce surface inflammation and irritation, as well as aiding in improving the oil layer of the tear film. You will most likely still need to use artificial tears or other lubricating eye drops, but this combination may improve the comfort of your eyes.
Dietary Sources
A number of foods contain beneficial amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish, such as salmon and halibut, contains omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed, walnuts and pumpkin seeds also provide omega-3. You may also choose to add omega-3 rich oils to your favorite recipes. These oils include canola oil, flaxseed oil, soybean oil and walnut oil.
Supplements
To have an adequate and consistent intake of omega-3, you may need to take a daily supplement. Fish oil capsules or flaxseed oil capsules can help ensure you meet the amount of omega-3 you need each day to help improve your dry eye symptoms. Your health care provider or eye doctor will help you determine the dosage appropriate for you.
Considerations
Before you increase your omega-3 intake, talk with your health care provider. Discuss the medications you currently use, as well as the supplements you take each day. This information, in addition to your general health, will help your health care provider determine your recommended dose of omega-3. In some instances, your doctor may recommend that you avoid high doses of omega-3, since this fatty acid may intensify the effect of some medications, such as blood thinners.
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