The outer surface of your eye has a lubricating tear film made up of three layers. These layers help nourish and protect the surface of your eye. If your eyes do not produce quality tears, or if your eyes fail to produce enough of these tears, you may experience dry eye. Your doctor can help you determine an appropriate treatment, and you may wish to discuss the role of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dry eye typically include surface irritation, such as a scratchy, gritty feeling. You may also experience excessive watering or a thick, stringy discharge. Your eyes may feel tired or sensitive to light. Dry eye may cause periods of blurry vision, but a few rapid blinks will often restore vision. Inflammation may also occur as a result of surface dryness, and this often causes redness and increased irritation of the surface of your eye.
Omega-3
Omega-3 will not improve the quality of your tears or help your eyes make enough tears to keep the surface lubricated. However, these fatty acids may help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort of your eyes. If you and your doctor determine that omega-3 may help improve your dry eye symptoms, she will tell you how much omega-3 to use each day. Sources of omega-3 include fish oil capsules or flaxseed oil capsules. You and your doctor may decide that food sources will offer the best treatment option. These foods include certain types of fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel. You may also opt for plant-based food sources such as walnuts, ground flaxseed and pumpkin seeds.
Omega-6
Omega-6 is another type of fatty acid your body requires for health and function. Omega-3 may help reduce inflammation, but certain forms of omega-6 may increase inflammation. Your body needs a balanced intake of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to avoid increased inflammation and risks for health conditions. Some supplements can provide you with the form of omega-6, gamma-linolenic acid that does not promote inflammation. These supplements include evening primrose oil, black currant seed oil and borage oil, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Your doctor can help you determine if you have a balanced intake of omega-6 and omega-3.
Considerations
A diet that consists of a variety of healthful foods often provides the necessary balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids your body needs. If your doctor thinks these nutrients may help reduce the severity of your symptoms she will tell you the best supplements to use. In addition, your doctor may also recommend that you use artificial tears to provide some relief from your symptoms.
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