Research: Dry eye can be prevented just by laughing

Chronic dry eye disease, which affects approximately 360 million people worldwide, has become more prevalent due to an aging population, air pollution, and increased screen time.

According to the research team at Sun Yat-sen University, Xiamen University, and Queen's University Belfast, artificial tears are typically used to alleviate discomfort caused by dry eyes and to stabilize tear layers. 0.1% sodium hyaluronic acid is one of the most commonly used artificial tears.

'JUST LAUGHING MIGHT HELP'

In the article published in the peer-reviewed journal The BMJ, the researchers wrote, “Dry eye disease is a chronic condition linked to psychological stress worldwide and poses an economic burden due to long-term use of artificial tears.” However, according to the researchers, instead of reaching for eye drops, patients might just need a good laugh.

According to the report in Oksijen, while specific biological mechanisms require further study, the researchers stated that the involvement of muscles and nerves during laughter could stimulate tear secretion. Laughter may also improve mental health, which is linked to the incidence of dry eye disease. The researchers wrote, “As a safe, environmentally friendly, and low-cost intervention, laughter exercise could serve as a first-line, home-based treatment for people with symptomatic dry eye disease and limited corneal staining.”

News Source: 12punto