Diabetes and dry eye

Many diabetic patients ask whether high blood sugar affects dry eye. Dr. Mahmoud El Samkary explains that diabetes causes dry eye in three ways:

1. It reduces the sensitivity of the nerves supplying the tear gland, so fewer tears are produced.
2. It reduces the sensitivity of the surface cells of the eye, so the tears do not stay on the eye and evaporate quickly.
3. It affects the oil glands, which hold the tears in place and prevent evaporation.

How does dry eye improve in diabetic patients?

Controlling blood sugar is the most important factor. When blood sugar is controlled, dryness decreases, the need for drops falls, and blurring, burning, itching and heaviness of the eyes improve. The appropriate blood sugar level is set by the internal medicine doctor.