Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to symptoms such as irritation, redness, and a burning sensation. While there are various treatments available to help alleviate these symptoms, one that is gaining popularity is low level light therapy (LLLT). In this post, we will discuss what LLLT is, how it works, and the potential benefits it offers for people with dry eyes.
LLLT is a form of phototherapy that involves exposing the eyes to low levels of visible or near-infrared light. The light is emitted by special devices, such as goggles or hand-held devices, and is delivered to the eyes in short treatment sessions. The idea behind LLLT is that the light energy can penetrate the surface of the eye and stimulate cells in the eye's surface to produce more tears.
One of the key benefits of LLLT is that it is non-invasive and painless. Unlike some other treatments for dry eye, such as punctal plugs (which block the ducts that drain tears from the eyes) or anti-inflammatory drops, LLLT does not involve any invasiveness. Additionally, because LLLT is a relatively new treatment option, it may be a good option for people who have not found relief from traditional treatments.
Studies have shown that LLLT can improve symptoms of dry eye, such as reducing redness, increasing tear production, and improving overall comfort and vision. A small study published in the Journal of Ophthalmology in 2010 found that LLLT was effective in treating dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction, a common cause of dry eye. Another study published in the same journal in 2011 found that LLLT was effective in treating dry eye caused by Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that affects the tear-producing glands.