Q: Dear Dr. Mao,
I am having problems with my eyes that get worse when I am under stress or eat certain foods. My eyeballs are red, sore, and sometimes there feels like there is something behind it; my lid and rim are red and swollen. The doctor believes it is ocular rosacea. Can you suggest some recommendations to remedy my eyes?
A: I would like to recommend you conduct some test to rule out the following: hypertension, ocular degeneration, and any viral infections.
In the meantime, try these recommendations:
1. Avoid spicy, fried and greasy foods, alcohol, coffee and other stimulants. Also, reduce stress and anger.
2. Drink chrysanthemum tea as source of water.
3. Make tea as dark as possible from dried dark tealeaves, Persian or Indian, to be sure there are no flavorings or additives. Then be sure to let the tea cool to room temperature. With a clean sterile cotton ball (one for each eye), drench the cotton ball in the tea and wash your eyes. You may want to tilt your head back. Wash from inner canthus to the outer canthus in a smooth movement with light pressure. Do this for 10 to 15 times per eye. Repeat this every night.
I also suggest you contact a licensed acupuncturist/herbalist. There are herbal and acupuncture treatments for eye conditions that are very effective.
Additionally, you may also try the Traditions of Tao herbal formula “Eyes” to help nourish your eye health. Of course, discuss with your physician before beginning any new health regime.
