Effects of behavior modification on lifestyle related to dry eye syndrome in working age groups
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Abstract
Background: Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can occur at any age. Its prevalence is increasing globally due to prolonged screen use on digital devices. These behaviors can cause eye irritation, burning sensations, and dryness, ultimately affecting quality of life and work performance. Current treatment approaches not only involve addressing the underlying causes and using eye drops but also emphasize the importance of lifestyle and environmental modifications to help prevent worsening symptoms and complications of dry eye disease.
Objectives: To study the effects of behavioral modifications on dry eye syndrome in working-age groups
Methods: This quasi-experimental, single-group study compared clinical outcomes before and after a 3-month behavioral modification program using the motivational interviewing (MI) technique in patients diagnosed with dry eye disease. The study was conducted at Sanamchaikhet Hospital between September 1, 2024, and February 28, 2025. Data were collected using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire to assess the severity of dry eye symptoms, and the Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) test to evaluate tear film stability. Statistical analyses were performed using the paired t-test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test depending on the distribution of the data as determined by the Shapiro-Wilk test, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Results: A total of 39 working-age participants aged 24-58 years (average age 43) met the inclusion criteria. After 3 months of behavioral and environmental modifications, there was a statistically significant reduction in the severity of dry eye symptoms (p<0.05) and a significant improvement in tear film stability (p<0.05).
Conclusions: A 3-month behavioral modification program using the Motivational Interviewing technique significantly improved both the severity of dry eye symptoms and the stability of the tear film in working-age patients with dry eye syndrome. These findings support the concept that behavioral and environmental modifications can be effectively integrated with conventional treatment to reduce symptom severity and enhance the quality of life in individuals with dry eye syndrome.
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