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Effect of artificial tears on visual acuity.
Mohammad-Reza Nilforoushan1, Robert A Latkany, Mark G Speaker
1Laser and Corneal Surgery Associates, PC, New York 10022, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|November 29, 2005
Summary
Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) 0.5% artificial tears temporarily improve vision in both symptomatic and asymptomatic dry eye patients. This effect may aid in diagnosing ocular surface issues.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Dry eye disease affects a significant portion of the population.
- Ocular surface abnormalities can impact visual acuity.
- Artificial tears are commonly used to manage dry eye symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of preservative-free carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) 0.5% artificial tears on visual acuity.
- To compare the effects in patients with symptomatic dry eye (SDE) and asymptomatic dry eye (ADE).
Main Methods:
- A nonrandomized prospective clinical trial was conducted.
- 20 SDE and 20 ADE patients (all ≥40 years) received CMC 0.5% artificial tears.
- Visual acuity (distance and near, corrected and uncorrected) was measured before and after CMC instillation.
Main Results:
- CMC 0.5% significantly improved uncorrected and corrected distance and near visual acuity in both SDE and ADE groups.
- No statistically significant difference in visual acuity improvement was observed between SDE and ADE groups.
- The duration of visual improvement averaged 2.93 minutes in SDE and 3.70 minutes in ADE patients.
Conclusions:
- Preservative-free CMC 0.5% offers a temporary but significant enhancement in visual acuity for dry eye patients.
- The temporary visual improvement induced by artificial tears may serve as a diagnostic indicator for ocular surface abnormalities.