EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF FLAXSEED FOR MILD TO MODERATE DRY EYE TREATMENT IN POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME

Abstract

Background: Flaxseed is the richest source of plant omega-3 fatty acids. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of flaxseed for mild to moderate dry eye treatment in polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Design: Quasi-Experimental study

Setting: Madina Teaching Hospital, Faisalabad

Material and Method:  The study assessed the effects of flaxseed and the lubricant Tear Kool on 60 females aged 20-35 with polycystic ovarian syndrome and mild to moderate dry eye. Participants were divided into three groups: Group A received 1.5 grams of flaxseed and Tear Kool, Group B received only Tear Kool, and Group C received flaxseed alone. Baseline evaluations were conducted using TBUT and Schirmer Test I, with follow-ups at 2 and 4 weeks. Data analysis utilized SPSS-27, employing repeated measures and one-way ANOVA.

Main Outcome: There was a significant improvement (p=.00) observed in all three groups. Flaxseed in combination with artificial lubricant is a highly effective treatment in the management of all types of dry eye disease

Sample Size: 60 participants

Results: The mean value of the Tear film break up time (TBUT) of Group A at baseline 7.4 (0.6 SD) standard deviation (SD) and 2^nd follow up was 12.6 (0.4 SD). Group B at baseline 7.4 (0.6 SD) and 2^nd follow up was 10.50 (0.8 SD) while Group C at baseline 7.5 (0.6 SD) and 2^nd follow up was 11.3 (0.4 SD). The mean value of Schirmer test I of Group A at baseline 8.1 (1.1 SD) and 2^nd follow up was 28.0 (2.8 SD). Group B at baseline 7.7 (1.3 SD) and 2^nd follow-up was 24.5 (2.3 SD) while Group C at baseline 7.4 (1.1 SD) and 2^nd follow up was 26.5 (1.9 SD).

Conclusion: Flaxseed in combination with artificial lubricant is a highly effective treatment in the management of all types of dry eye disease. It improves tear film stability and enhances tear production, more efficiently and briskly.