Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 5, 2025
Comparing Objective Conjunctival Hyperemia Grading and the Ocular Surface Disease Index Score in Dry Eye Syndrome During COVID-19
Published on: May 25, 2022
Low ambient temperature correlates with the severity of dry eye symptoms
Wei-Ting Ho1,2, Chiung-Yi Chiu1, Shu-Wen Chang1,3
1Department of Ophthalmology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
Purpose:
The symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) are influenced by environmental factors, but the effect of ambient temperature is less certain. Our purpose was to investigate the relationship between the severity of DED symptoms and the ambient temperature.
Materials And Methods:
This retrospective study reviewed the symptom scores, including ocular surface disease index (OSDI) and standardized patient evaluation of eye dryness (SPEED), as well as tear film parameters of first-time DED patients between June 2018 and June 2019. The contribution of tear film parameters and environmental factors, including ambient temperature, humidity, wind speed, and the concentration of air pollutants, to the severity of dry eye symptoms was evaluated by univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses.
Results:
There were 351 patients included aged 52.8 ± 13.6 years, and 257 (73.2%) were female. The average tear film break-up time, Schirmer test value, and lipid layer thickness were 2.6 ± 0.7 s, 5.5 ± 4.3 mm, and 64.1 ± 6.0 μm, respectively. The average OSDI and SPEED were 41.8 ± 19.8 and 12.1 ± 5.1, respectively. In winter, the patients reported higher OSDI and SPEED. Both scores were significantly correlated with low ambient temperature. Regression analysis showed that low ambient temperature and Schirmer test value contributed to higher OSDI, while low ambient temperature and younger age contributed to higher SPEED.
Conclusion:
Low ambient temperature plays a significant role in DED symptom severity.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Decreased Body Temperature
01:28Factors Affecting Body Temperature
Factors may include:
02:20Correlations
01:09Correlation
Two variables, for example, a and b, are said to be positively correlated if both variables move in the same direction. In other words, a positive correlation exists between two variables, a and b, if:
01:19Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's...
01:14Assessing Body Temperature - Oral
Step 1:
Start by practicing proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
Step 2:
Take the thermometer out of the charging unit, switch it on, and wait for the ready sign.
Step 3:
Gently slide the probe cover until a click is heard. This simple action prevents cross-contamination and ensures the correct placement of the probe cover.
Step 4:
Instruct the patient to open their mouth and place...