Ayurvedic management of dry eye syndrome: A case report

Dry eye syndrome is a multifactorial pathological condition that affects the tear film and ocular surface resulting in symptoms of discomfort, visual disturbance, and tear film instability with potential damage to the ocular surface. Dry eye syndrome may be correlated with Shushkakshipaka (~xerophthalmia), a Sarvakshigata roga mentioned in Ayurveda classics. A surge in cases of dry eye has been observed in recent times due to changes in the environment and associated with increasing screen time. This case report aims to present a case of dry eye syndrome that was successfully managed following the Ayurvedic approach. A 48-year-old male patient presented to the outpatient department with heaviness and dryness in both eyes for 18 months. On examination, Schirmer’s test showed 5 mm in both eyes, and Tear breakup time (TBUT) showed 2 s and 7 s in the right and left eye, respectively. The patient was given Ayurveda management that includes Anu taila pratimarsha nasya, Vicharana snehapana , and Ashchyotana with the internal administration of Mahatriphala ghrita, Saptamrita loha along with lid massage using Avartita (21) Ksheerabala taila for two months. The management resulted in an improvement in the Schirmer’s value to 24 mm and 26 mm and TBUT of 16 s and 14 s in the right and left eye, respectively. The management protocol adopted in the present case includes internal medicines and customized procedures having Vata–pitta shamaka, Shoshahara , and Rasayana properties, which helped to resolve the chief complaints.