Are Fish Oil Pills Good for Dry Eyes?

Fish oil pills can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Known Benefits

Fish oil pills contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which may help some patients control their dry eye symptoms. Studies have shown that Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation in the body. Some patients experience dry eye symptoms due to inflammation around the eyelid area. Omega-3 fatty acids can be consumed by either adding dark, oily fish or flaxseed to your diet or by taking a fish oil supplement.

Immediate Relief

People who need immediate relief from dry eye symptoms can find eye drops to control their symptoms. Occasional dry eye sufferers can find relief in over-the-counter eye drops. Long-term sufferers may benefit from prescription eye drops that contain either antibiotics or immune suppressing medications to control inflammation.

Bottom Line

Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish oil pills, are still being studied to confirm the benefits to dry eye sufferers. Adding fish oil pills to your diet may help dry eye symptoms overall, but it is best to talk to your doctor about the reasons for your dry eye symptoms and what type of treatments can help you get relief as quickly as possible.

References

• Mayo Clinic
• Dry Eye in Depth

Resources

• Mayo Clinic