The Investigation Of The Effect Of Incense Use On Patients With Dry Eye Disease: A Clinical Interview-Based Study

To investigate the association between incense use and dry eye disease (DED) symptoms, inflammatory biomarkers, and ocular health in Saudi patients, comparing those with DED to cataract patients.

King Abdulaziz Medical Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

A cross-sectional study conducted from August to December 2022, involving 64 participants (34 DED patients, 30 cataract patients). Data was collected through a validated questionnaire assessing incense use and dry eye symptoms. Tear break-up time (TBUT) was measured as an ocular examination, and blood tests assessed inflammatory markers, including Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR). Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at p<0.05.

DED patients reported higher frequencies and intensities of dry eye symptoms, such as dryness (79.4%), itchiness (81.8%), and eye fatigue (66.7%), compared to cataract patients. Synthetic wood incense was the most commonly used, with 85.3% of DED patients reporting its use. A positive correlation was observed between NLR, PLR, and TBUT in DED patients (p<0.001). TBUT was lower than 10 seconds in the majority of DED patients, indicating poor tear film stability.

Incense use, particularly synthetic types, may exacerbate dry eye symptoms and contribute to DED. This study highlights the need for public awareness regarding the risks of incense exposure, particularly for individuals with predisposing factors for DED. Future studies should explore the mechanisms underlying these associations and promote preventive measures.