Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for dry eye disease as it can cause nerve and blood vessel damage, which affects tear production and quality, leading to dry eye syndrome.
Among the options provided, B) Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for dry eye disease. Diabetes affects the body in numerous ways, and one complication can be an increased risk of dry eye syndrome. In diabetes, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves and the blood vessels that supply various parts of the body, including the eyes.
This can lead to a decrease in tear production or tears that evaporate too quickly, both of which are key features of dry eye disease. Therefore, managing blood sugar levels is crucial for those with diabetes to reduce the risk of developing dry eye and other complications.
So, being aware that diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for dry eye disease can encourage patients to proactively manage their diabetes to mitigate this and other health risks.