In a new study from the University of Waterloo, researchers found that tear secretion and tear film stability are enhanced after participating in aerobic exercise. Exercise could be another remedy for relieving dry, itchy eyes.
Every time we blink, our eyes are covered in tear film—an essential protective coating necessary for maintaining healthy ocular function.
Healthy tear film comprises three layers–oil, water, and mucin–that work together to hydrate the ocular surface and protect against infection-causing irritants like dust or dirt.
When any part of the tear film becomes unstable, the ocular surface can develop dry spots, causing eye symptoms like itchiness or stinging and burning sensations.
Because lots of people’s activities are linked to screen usage, it’s more and more common to see dry eye symptoms.
In the current study, the researchers wanted to know if remaining physically active can be an effective preventative measure against dryness.
52 participants took the exercise test. They were divided into two groups, athlete and non-athlete.
Participants in the athlete group exercised at least five times per week, while non-athlete participants exercised no more than once per week.
Researchers performed visual examinations before and five minutes after each exercise session, where tear secretion and tear break-up time were assessed.
Researchers found that all participants experienced a meaningful boost in tear quantity and tear film stability after the exercise session, even though the athlete group had the largest boost.
The findings suggest that physical activity is important not only for overall well-being but also for eye health
If you care about eye health, please read studies that your eyes can show signs of ‘long COVID’, and these foods may damage your eyes.
For more information about wellness, please see recent studies about therapy that could reverse diabetes-related eye disease, and results showing this eye problem may increase risk of dementia.
The study was conducted by Samuel Abokyi et al. and published in Experimental Eye Research.
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