Corneal xerosis

Question

A few months ago, my eyes started feeling dry, but I ignored it, thinking it was just because of too much screen time. I work on my laptop all day, and when I’m not working, I’m on my phone—scrolling, watching videos, reading. My eyes would feel tired, but I didn’t think it was serious. Then, I started feeling like there was something stuck in my eyes, like grains of sand. I kept rubbing them, but it didn’t help.

Now, the dryness is unbearable. My eyes feel scratchy all the time, especially in the mornings. At night, my vision gets blurry, and I’ve noticed these tiny white spots on my eyes. Someone told me it could be corneal xerosis, so I started searching online, and now I’m really worried. I read that corneal xerosis is linked to vitamin A deficiency. I won’t lie—my diet is pretty bad. I eat a lot of instant noodles, chips, and junk food. I barely eat vegetables, and I don’t remember the last time I had carrots or leafy greens. Could my bad diet be the reason for corneal xerosis?

Lately, my eyes have become super sensitive to light. When I go outside, the sunlight feels way too bright, and my eyes start watering uncontrollably. But when I’m indoors, my eyes feel painfully dry. I tried using eye drops, but they only give relief for a short time. After a while, the dryness comes back, sometimes worse than before. Is this a sign that my corneal xerosis is getting worse?

I’m really scared about this because I read that if corneal xerosis is left untreated, it can lead to blindness. I don’t want to lose my vision over something that could have been prevented. But at the same time, I don’t want to rely on allopathic medicines or artificial supplements. I believe in Ayurveda and natural healing, so I want to know if there are any Ayurvedic remedies for corneal xerosis. Can herbs or certain foods help reverse corneal xerosis naturally?

I also heard that applying ghee to the eyes can help with dryness. Some people say it’s a great remedy for corneal xerosis, but others say it can make things worse if not done properly. Has anyone tried using ghee for corneal xerosis? Does it really help, or is it just a myth?

I would really appreciate any advice on Ayurvedic treatments for corneal xerosis. What foods should I start eating to improve my vitamin A levels? Are there any herbal treatments or eye drops in Ayurveda that can help with corneal xerosis? If anyone has had corneal xerosis and treated it naturally, please share what worked for you. I want to do everything I can before this gets worse.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Namaste. Your concerns about corneal xerosis and extreme eye dryness are valid, and I can sense the distress you are feeling. In Ayurveda, the eyes are governed by the Alochaka Pitta, a subdosha of Pitta responsible for vision and eye health. Excessive screen time, poor diet, and lack of rest aggravate Pitta and Vata dosha, leading to dryness, burning, and light sensitivity. The presence of white spots and persistent gritty sensation suggest a depletion of Rasa Dhatu (fluid tissues), which needs deep nourishment. The good news is that with proper diet, herbal support, and Ayurvedic eye care, you can reverse these symptoms and protect your vision naturally.

Yes, your junk food diet may have contributed to vitamin A deficiency, affecting your cornea. To restore eye health, start including vitamin A-rich foods like carrots, pumpkin, ghee, cow’s milk, leafy greens, and soaked almonds in your daily meals. Amla (Indian Gooseberry), rich in antioxidants, is excellent for improving vision. You can take Triphala churna (half a teaspoon with warm water at night) to detoxify the system and nourish the eyes. Instead of instant noodles, switch to home-cooked meals with desi ghee, as it strengthens eye tissues.

For immediate relief, Ayurveda recommends Netra Tarpana, where medicated ghee is retained over the eyes, providing deep lubrication. You can also apply pure cow ghee to the eyelids before sleep, but avoid putting it directly in the eyes without proper guidance. Try Nasya therapy (2 drops of Anu Taila in each nostril daily) to improve eye moisture naturally. Instead of artificial eye drops, use Ayurvedic rose water or Triphala eyewash (Triphala powder boiled in water, then cooled and strained) to cleanse and refresh the eyes.

Since you have light sensitivity, avoid direct exposure to bright screens and sunlight. Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to relax your eyes. Gentle eye yoga and Palming (rubbing hands together and placing them over closed eyes) will also help. Be mindful of hydration—drink warm herbal teas with fennel, cumin, and coriander to balance Pitta. With patience and a consistent Ayurvedic routine, you can restore natural eye moisture and prevent further complications. Take care of your Drishti (vision), as it is a divine gift!

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Corneal xerosis is often linked to a deficiency of vitamin A and aggravated by excessive screen time, which increases Vata and Pitta dosha, leading to dryness and irritation in the eyes. Ayurveda emphasizes nourishing and lubricating the eyes with natural remedies. Consuming ghee, especially medicated ghee like Triphala Ghrita or Jeevantyadi Ghrita, helps restore eye health. Including vitamin A-rich foods like carrots, leafy greens, pumpkin, and Amla in your diet is essential. Ayurvedic eye drops like Itone or Saptamrita Lauha can provide relief, and daily Netra Tarpana (eye nourishment therapy with ghee) under expert supervision can help restore moisture. Applying a drop of pure, warm cow’s ghee in the eyes before bedtime can be soothing, but it must be done with care. Reducing screen exposure, blinking consciously, and practicing palming exercises can also help prevent further damage. Hydration and a balanced diet play a key role in reversing dryness and improving vision naturally.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

It's clear that you're experiencing significant discomfort with dry eyes and potential corneal xerosis, and I commend you for seeking natural remedies through Ayurveda. Your symptoms, including dryness, scratchiness, and light sensitivity, may indeed connect to your dietary choices and lifestyle, which can lead to an accumulation of Pitta dosha and Vata imbalance. Let's take a personalized approach to your situation.

Dietary Recommendations:
1. Increase Vitamin A-Rich Foods: Include foods high in Vitamin A to address potential deficiencies. Start incorporating:
   - Carrots: Raw or in soups.
   - Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and amaranth can be sautéed or added to smoothies.
   - Sweet Potatoes: A great source, can be roasted or made into mash.
   - Pumpkin: Can be cooked in soups or stews.
   - Fruits: Apricots, mangoes, and cantaloupe.

2. Hydrating Foods: Eat foods that help maintain moisture:
   - Cucumbers and Watermelon: High water content.
   - Coconut Water: Natural hydration.

3. Healthy Fats: Include ghee (clarified butter) and other omega-rich foods like flaxseeds and walnuts to nourish your eyes. Ghee helps lubricate tissues and may alleviate dryness when used properly.

Herbal Treatments:
1. Triphala: This traditional herbal formulation can support eye health when taken internally. Start with ½ teaspoon mixed with water before bed.

2. Castor Oil: Consider using fresh organic castor oil as an eye drop (1-2 drops in each eye before bed). It’s nourishing and may help combat dryness.

3. Eye Wash: Make a warm eyewash with 1 cup of pure water and a pinch of salt. Use this to rinse your eyes morning and evening to help alleviate irritation.

Lifestyle Changes:
1. Screen Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain.

2. Humid Environment: If possible, use a humidifier in your home, especially while you sleep, to keep moisture in the air.

3. Gentle Eye Yoga: Practice eye exercises such as blinking rapidly for 10 seconds, rolling your eyes, and focusing on different distances to improve circulation.

Ghee Application:
While applying ghee to the eyes can be beneficial, it is essential to do it correctly. Ensure the ghee is warm but not hot and sterile. Begin with a very small amount (one drop) to see if it helps your condition. Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner if you're uncertain about any self-application.

Important Note:
Given your concerns, please consider consulting an ophthalmologist to rule out any acute conditions and to ensure no serious damage has occurred. Early intervention is essential for eye health. This dual approach of Ayurveda and modern care can yield the best results.

Your proactive steps toward dietary and lifestyle changes can significantly improve your situation. Embrace the journey of healing, and stay consistent with these recommendations.

Corneal xerosis - #18104

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions

Popular questions

Doctors online

Latest reviews