Dry eye and migraines can occur at the same time and worsen the effects of one another in some patients, leading to the question “Is there a link between dry eye and migraines?” A few studies have shown that there are credible links between the two issues and that they share common trigger mechanisms that can further discomfort and pain. Do you experience these two problems at the same time as well? Is there a way to avoid or lessen their effects? Dry eye treatment experts from Lumen Optometric share some info!
Studies have been conducted on the theory of dry eye and migraines being involved with one another and worsening the effects of both. A study titled Tear Osmolarity and Subjective Dry Eye Symptoms in Migraine Sufferers was made in 2017 and was made to explore this correlation.
Tear osmolarity refers to the amount of salt content in an individual’s tears. Tear osmolarity is a regular test for dry eyes, as the higher the salt content of a person’s tears, the more prone they are to dry eye. In the above-mentioned study, they had 34 migraineurs in the research group, and during the observation period, migraine attacks were generally accompanied by dry eye. Additionally, the more frequent the migraine attacks became, their tear osmolarity also increased.
To summarize, the study focused on the link between migraines, dry eye, and tear osmolarity. And during the study, when migraines occurred, the effects of dry eye were also observed. And the more migraines with severe pain and discomfort the research subjects experienced, the saltier their tears became, resulting in them becoming more susceptible to dry eye.
Contact lens users are very susceptible to the effects of dry eye, and these lenses need the right amount of lubrication to function comfortably on the surface of the eyes. If you’re someone who uses a contact lens and has been having bouts of dry eye, contacting your scleral optometrist or nearest eye clinic would be the best course of action.
If you’re getting dry eye that comes with migraine, lessening the effects of both is possible by getting the proper dry eye prescription and taking standard medications against migraines. Commonly, treatment for dry eye is done by the use of artificial tears, as dry eye happens when your eyes can’t get the right amount of lubrication they need. With eyes that lack the proper amount of lubrication, artificial tears are the optimal way to address dry eye. They are available over-the-counter and come in the form of liquid, gel, or ointment types. If your eyes are always tearing up and lessening your tear reserves, getting assistance from an eye care clinic and requesting tear duct plugs is a good way to prevent dry eye.
Have problems with migraines and neck pain? Inquire about our Neurolens treatment, which is backed with over 10 years of intensive studies and research! Lumen Optometric focuses on patient care by providing cutting-edge, holistic vision care, and a great optometric experience. Our staff is a culmination of the latest optical research and technology converging with highly personalized education, resulting in professionals strictly focused on balancing your visual clarity, comfort, and health.
For any inquiries, contact us through (626) 921-0199 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve patients in the state of California.
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