Can sodium hyaluronate eye drops treat dry eye syndrome?

Sodium hyaluronate eye drops are a commonly used clinical medication for treating dry eye syndrome, but their effectiveness depends on the type and severity of the dry eye condition. Detailed analysis is as follows:

The core issue in dry eye syndrome is abnormal quantity or quality of tears, leading to insufficient ocular surface lubrication. Sodium hyaluronate has excellent water retention and lubricating properties. After instillation, it forms a stable protective film on the ocular surface, reduces tear evaporation, and alleviates symptoms such as dryness and foreign body sensation. For aqueous-deficient dry eye, these eye drops directly supplement moisture; for evaporative dry eye, they can be used in combination with eyelid gland care to enhance therapeutic effects. In mild cases, the drops alone may be effective, whereas moderate to severe cases often require additional treatments. It is important to follow medical advice when selecting the appropriate concentration—lower concentrations are suitable for mild symptoms, while higher concentrations are recommended for moderate dry eye.

Additionally, good eye-use habits should be maintained, such as avoiding prolonged screen exposure and taking a 5-minute break after every 40 minutes of screen use. Indoor humidity should be kept at an appropriate level, and direct airflow from air conditioning onto the eyes should be avoided. These measures can help improve treatment outcomes and support long-term ocular surface health.