Can mild dry eye syndrome resolve on its own?

Dry eye syndrome is a common ophthalmic condition with a relatively high clinical incidence. It typically arises from qualitative and quantitative abnormalities of the tear film, leading to excessive tear evaporation and loss of protective function for the ocular surface. Symptoms include dryness, grittiness, foreign-body sensation, and general ocular discomfort; in severe cases, vision may be impaired. So, can mild dry eye syndrome resolve spontaneously? Let’s explore this further.

Can Mild Dry Eye Syndrome Resolve Spontaneously?

Mild dry eye syndrome may resolve spontaneously; however, it tends to recur. If symptoms persist over time, topical artificial tears may be used appropriately to alleviate discomfort. Antibiotics or antiviral eye drops are not indicated for the treatment of dry eye syndrome.

Current primary treatment modalities for this condition include topical artificial tears, punctal plug insertion, and eyelid hygiene. Treatment should be tailored according to individual clinical presentation and signs. Patients should also maintain good ocular hygiene—avoiding prolonged screen time (e.g., television, computers, smartphones)—and adopt a light, non-irritating diet low in spicy or stimulating foods, while ensuring adequate hydration.

What Foods Are Beneficial for Dry Eye Syndrome?

1. Lily Bulb and Jujube Porridge: Combine 10 g lily bulb, 15 g Chinese yam (Dioscorea opposita), 20 g coix seed (Job’s tears), and 10 pitted jujubes. Wash all ingredients thoroughly and cook together into a porridge. This therapeutic dietary approach helps nourish yin and clear fire (lily bulb), tonify the kidneys and moisten the lungs (Chinese yam), promote diuresis and spleen health while clearing heat and draining pus (coix seed), and supply abundant vitamins A and C (jujube—often called the “natural vitamin pill”). This porridge not only helps prevent and manage dry eye but also supports visual acuity.

2. Chrysanthemum and Goji Berry Tea: Steep chrysanthemum flowers with goji berries for approximately 10 minutes before drinking. According to the Compendium of Materia Medica, chrysanthemum is sweet and cold in nature, with actions that dispel wind-heat and calm the liver to improve vision. Modern pharmacological studies indicate chrysanthemum is rich in vitamin A—a vital nutrient for ocular health. Chrysanthemum tea promotes mental clarity and brightens the eyes, particularly benefiting individuals with liver-fire excess or ocular dryness resulting from excessive visual strain.

We hope the above information is helpful to you.