The Impact of Hypothyroidism on Tear Production and Dry Eye Symptoms: Implications for Optometric Care

Superior University

Status: Active, not recruiting

Conditions: Dry Eye Syndromes

Study type: Observational

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06913465

MSRSW/Batch-Fall23/801

Details and patient eligibility

About

This observational cross-sectional study will assess the impact of hypothyroidism on tear production and tear film stability. Conducted at DHQ Hospital dera ghazi khan over six months, the study will recruit 71 participants aged 20-60 years using a non-probability convenience sampling method. Patients with confirmed hypothyroidism will undergo tear assessment through the Schirmer I test, Tear Breakup Time (TBUT) test, and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire. The Schirmer test will measure tear production, while TBUT will assess tear film stability.

Full description

Ocular surface staining and tear osmolarity will further evaluate ocular health. Patients with systemic conditions affecting tear production, such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, will be excluded. The collected data will be analyzed to determine the relationship between hypothyroidism and dry eye symptoms, aiding in better management of ocular health in hypothyroid patients. The study aims to provide valuable insights into the association between thyroid dysfunction and tear film abnormalities.

Enrollment: 64 patients

Sex: Female

Ages: 20 to 60 years old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Age between 20-60 years.
• Confirmed diagnosis of hypothyroidism with thyroid function tests.
• No prior history of ocular surgery or significant ocular pathology.

Exclusion criteria

• Use of systemic medications affecting tear production (e.g., antihistamines, diuretics).
• Other systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis).
• Pregnancy or lactation