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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective and Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dry eye syndrome is primarily attributed to liver and kidney yin deficiency, qi and blood deficiency, internal damp heat, or wind-heat invasion. TCM believes that the health of the eyes is closely related to the functions of the liver and kidneys, as “the liver opens to the eyes,” and kidney essence nourishes the eyes. Dry eye syndrome often results from yin deficiency with internal heat, where the liver and kidney yin fluids are insufficient to sustain the eyes. Additionally, a weak spleen and stomach, leading to inadequate production of qi and blood, can also affect the nourishment of the eyes, causing dryness and discomfort.

Treatment Methods:

1. Nourishing Yin and Moistening the Eyes: For cases of liver and kidney yin deficiency, TCM commonly uses herbal formulas that nourish yin and blood, such as Qi Ju Di Huang Wan and Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, to strengthen the liver and kidneys and moisten the eyes.

2. Clearing Heat and Reducing Fire: If dry eye syndrome is accompanied by symptoms like eye redness and pain, which may be due to wind-heat invasion or liver fire flaring up, TCM may employ herbs that clear heat and detoxify, such as Long Dan Xie Gan Wan, to alleviate these symptoms.

3. Tonifying Qi and Nourishing Blood: For dry eye caused by qi and blood deficiency, TCM often uses formulas like Gui Pi Tang or Ba Zhen Tang to replenish qi and blood, enhance vitality, and improve eye health.

4. Acupuncture Therapy:
Acupuncture is a common TCM treatment for dry-eye syndrome. By stimulating specific acupoints, such as Zan Zhu, Cheng Qi, and Feng Chi, acupuncture can regulate the flow of qi and blood around the eyes and relieve symptoms.

5. Warm Compresses and Eye Massage: TCM also emphasizes using warm compresses and eye acupoint massage, such as Jing Ming and Si Bai, to promote blood circulation around the eyes, increase tear secretion, and alleviate dryness.

TCM treatment for dry eye syndrome focuses on holistic regulation, addressing both symptoms and the underlying imbalances within the body.

Be cautious! The risks associated with high myopia are significant!

Eyeball elongation, specifically the increase in axial length, is a key characteristic of high myopia. Normally, the shape of the eyeball is close to spherical, but in patients with high myopia, the anterior-posterior diameter (axial length) is longer than normal. This elongation can lead to a series of problems, including:

1. Retinal Stretching

The elongation of the eye causes the retina to become thinner and more stretched, making it more susceptible to tears and detachment.

2. Scleral Thinning

The elongation of the eye also causes the sclera to thin, especially at the posterior pole of the eye, increasing the risk of posterior staphyloma.

3. Macular Damage

The elongation of the eyeball places additional stress on the macular region, potentially leading to macular degeneration or macular holes.

4. Optic Nerve Compression

Due to the excessive axial length, the optic nerve and surrounding blood vessels may be compressed, increasing the risk of glaucoma.

5. Vitreous Liquefaction

The elongation of the eyeball can also affect the structure of the vitreous body, making it more susceptible to liquefaction and degenerative changes, leading to floaters and other issues.

In summary, the elongation of the eyeball plays a crucial role in high myopia and is the primary mechanism behind these complications. Regular eye examinations and early intervention are essential for preventing and managing these conditions. Early acupuncture intervention can prevent the progression of myopia, thereby avoiding the occurrence of these complications.

What are the Advantages of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Treating Ophthalmic Diseases?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers unique benefits in treating ophthalmic diseases through a holistic and natural approach:

1. Holistic Regulation: TCM emphasizes a holistic approach, viewing the eyes as closely connected with the internal organs. By regulating the body’s functions and improving the health of the organs, it effectively treats eye disease. For example, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that the liver is closely connected to eye health. If a patient experiences symptoms like dry eyes or blurred vision, TCM might focus on improving liver function to address these eye issues. This holistic approach not only relieves eye discomfort but also enhances the patient’s overall health. Additionally, some patients may experience vision decline due to emotional instability and frequent anger, which TCM associates with liver dysfunction. Since excessive emotions can harm liver qi and impair vision, balancing liver function and emotions becomes essential in TCM treatment

2. Prevention-Oriented: TCM focuses on prevention by regulating the internal organs and strengthening the body’s defenses. This approach can help intervene in the early stages of disease or even before it occurs, reducing the incidence and recurrence of eye diseases.

3. Natural Therapies: TCM often employs natural therapies such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, and dietary therapy. These methods have fewer side effects and are suitable for long-term management, particularly beneficial for patients with chronic eye conditions.

These advantages make TCM an effective option, particularly for chronic and difficult-to-treat ophthalmic conditions.

How Does Acupuncture improve Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)?

Acupuncture can help improve Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) through several mechanisms:

1. Improving Blood Circulation

Enhancing Local Blood Flow:
Acupuncture stimulates specific points to promote blood circulation in the eye and surrounding tissues. This increased blood flow can reduce oxygen deprivation and swelling in the retina.

Breaking Up Blood Clots:
Acupuncture can help dissolve blood clots and improve blood flow, reducing the blockage in the veins.

2. Regulating Immune Function

Boosting Immunity:
By regulating the immune system, acupuncture can enhance the body’s ability to resist inflammation and infection, reducing blood vessel damage caused by inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory Effects:
Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation in the retina and surrounding tissues, minimizing damage and swelling.

3. Nerve Regulation

Reducing Stress and Tension:
Acupuncture can help relax the autonomic nervous system, reduce stress, and lower blood pressure, which improves overall blood circulation.

Improving Optic Nerve Function:
Stimulating certain acupuncture points can enhance the function of the optic nerve, aiding in vision recovery.

4. Overall Body Regulation

Holistic Approach:
Acupuncture not only targets the eye but also involves overall body regulation. It balances the body’s internal systems, enhancing overall health and indirectly improving eye conditions.

Individualized Treatment:
Acupuncturists tailor treatment plans based on the patient’s specific condition, selecting different points and techniques to achieve the best results.

In conclusion, acupuncture offers a multifaceted approach to improving Retinal Vein Occlusion by enhancing blood circulation, regulating immune function, reducing stress, and promoting overall body balance. Each treatment is customized to the patient’s unique needs, providing a holistic and effective alternative therapy for managing RVO.

Are you interested in trying acupuncture for your eye condition? Please give our acupuncturist, May Huang, a call at 416-455-0351. She will be happy to answer any questions you may have.