ABSTRACT

Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial condition influenced by various physiological and psychological factors, including stress. This study examines the relationship between perceived stress, tear quantity, and tear stability among optometry students at the University of Benin. Seventy participants (62.9% female, 37.1% male) aged 18–35 years were recruited. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was used to assess stress levels, while tear quantity and stability were measured using Schirmer’s test and Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT), respectively. The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) was also administered to evaluate subjective dry eye symptoms. The Results revealed no significant association between perceived stress and objective tear film parameters, including TBUT (P = .597) and tear quantity (P = .287). However, significant relationship was found between perceived stress levels and dry eye severity, with participants experiencing moderate to severe dry eye symptoms reporting higher stress scores (H(3) = 26.41, P < .001). These findings suggest that while stress contributes to the subjective perception of dry eye symptoms, it does not directly impact tear film stability or tear production. This contributes to understanding how perceived stress levels might impact ocular surface health, paving the way for potential therapeutic applications or preventive strategies.

Keywords: tear quantity, tear stability, tear film, stress