Dry eye disease affects over 360 million people worldwide, causing symptoms like redness, irritation, and discomfort. Stress can worsen these symptoms. A recent study suggests an unusual remedy: laughter.
Researchers from China and the UK propose that laughter could be an effective treatment. Their study, published in the BMJ, examined whether laughter could serve as a home-based treatment for dry eye disease.
The study involved 283 participants with dry eye disease. They were divided into two groups: one used laughter exercises, while the other applied 0.1% sodium hyaluronic acid eye drops.
The laughter group followed a video that instructed them to repeat phrases like “Hee hee hee” and “Hah hah hah” 30 times in five minutes, four times a day. They used an app to track their facial movements.
The eye drop group applied the drops four times daily, also using an app for tracking.
After eight weeks, both treatments were stopped, and researchers assessed changes in eye discomfort at 10 and 12 weeks. They found that laughter exercises were as effective as eye drops and had additional benefits for mental health.
The researchers believe laughter might improve dry eye disease by positively affecting lifestyle. However, the study has limitations, such as potential bias and the time required for laughter exercises.
Dr. Matthew Gorski, an ophthalmologist not involved in the study, finds the results intriguing but advises caution. “Laughter exercises are an innovative idea, but more research is needed before making firm recommendations,” he said.
