Dry eye disease is a persistent and challenging condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments, such as artificial tears and anti-inflammatory medications, often fail to provide lasting relief. But now, a groundbreaking technology called Photobiomodulation (PBM) is emerging as a promising new solution. Recognized in the latest TFOS DEWS III Management and Therapy Report (2025), PBM therapy offers a revolutionary approach to treating dry eye and related ocular surface disorders. This blog will explore the science behind PBM, its applications in low-level light therapy (LLLT) and intense pulsed light (IPL), and why it's being hailed as a game-changer for dry eye management. What is Photobiomodulation (PBM)? PBM is a non-invasive therapy that uses specific wavelengths of light, typically red light (650–900nm) or near-infrared light, to stimulate biological tissues. Unlike traditional heat-based treatments, PBM works through non-thermal effects, triggering cellular repair, reducing inflammation, and improving tissue function. In low-level light therapy (LLLT), soft LED light is applied to the skin around the eyelids. This stimulates the meibomian glands, which are often dysfunctional in dry eye patients. By promoting the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and releasing nitric oxide, PBM accelerates local metabolism, reduces inflammatory mediators, and enhances tear film stability. Source: https://www.gustaveroussy.fr/en/innovative-technique-prevent-and-reduce-some-side-effects-cancer-treatment How PBM Treats Dry Eye Disease Dry eye is often caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where blocked or underperforming glands fail to produce adequate lipids for the tear film's protective layer. PBM therapy addresses this issue in several ways: 1. Improved Gland Function: PBM softens and clears blocked gland oils. It stimulates normal gland secretion, enhancing the lipid layer of the tear film. 2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reduces chronic inflammation on the ocular surface. Breaks the vicious cycle of “tear film instability and inflammation” that exacerbates dry eye. 3. Non-Invasive and Safe: PBM is painless, non-invasive, and free of harmful thermal effects. Unlike some traditional treatments, it avoids risks like ocular burns or discomfort. PBM is often described as a “gentle light massage” for the eyes, offering a holistic solution that goes beyond symptomatic relief to address the underlying causes of dry eye. Global Perspective on PBM Therapy The recognition of PBM therapy by the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) marks a significant milestone in dry eye treatment. Experts worldwide are increasingly adopting this innovative technology: Europe: Fergal Byron, Senior Product Manager at Topcon, calls PBM’s emergence in dry eye management a “revolutionary breakthrough,” filling a long-standing gap in treatment options. In the UK, ophthalmologists are combining IPL and LLLT in clinical settings to achieve synergistic effects for dry eye relief. Australia: Dr. Nisha Sachdev has observed “remarkable, non-invasive results” with PBM in her practice, noting its ability to deliver immediate symptom relief without surgery or medication. China: Leading institutions like Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital and Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital are incorporating PBM into their treatment protocols. These clinics report a 93% improvement rate among patients with moderate-to-severe dry eye symptoms. The Science Behind PBM Therapy How Does Light Therapy Work? PBM therapy relies on the interaction of light with biological tissues. When the eyelid skin absorbs specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light, the following occurs: Mitochondrial Activation: Light stimulates mitochondria to produce more ATP, the energy molecule that powers cellular repair and regeneration. Nitric Oxide Release: Nitric oxide dilates blood vessels, improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Tissue Repair: Enhanced cellular metabolism accelerates the healing of damaged tissues, including the ocular surface. Key Benefits of PBM for Dry Eye: Restores healthy tear production. Stabilizes the lipid layer of the tear film. Reduces reliance on artificial tears and anti-inflammatory medications. Offers a non-invasive, drug-free solution with minimal side effects. PBM Devices: From Clinics to Home Use Currently, PBM therapy is primarily available in specialized clinics using advanced medical devices. Some notable innovations include: Eye-Light by Espansione (Italy): A red-light face mask designed for professional use. Equinox LLLT Mask by Marco (USA): A low-level light therapy mask for clinical applications. LuminEyes by KouShiCare (Japan): One of the few devices under development for at-home treatment. The development of compact, user-friendly PBM devices for home use is expected to make this therapy more accessible to chronic dry eye patients.   Expert Opinions on PBM While the evidence for PBM’s effectiveness continues to grow, some experts urge caution. Dr. Qian Jinwei from Zhejiang University Eye Hospital points out that not all PBM devices are created equal. He highlights the importance of choosing certified devices and undergoing treatment under professional supervision. Nonetheless, the consensus among clinicians and researchers is overwhelmingly positive. With ongoing studies, such as the multi-center trial at the University of Auckland, PBM therapy will likely become a standard part of dry eye management in the coming years.   Future Outlook: A New Era for Dry Eye Treatment PBM therapy represents a paradigm shift in the treatment of dry eye disease. Unlike conventional methods that focus on symptom management, PBM addresses the root causes, offering a long-term solution for patients. Its non-invasive nature, minimal side effects, and multi-targeted approach make it a standout option in the field of ocular health. What’s Next for PBM? Clinical Evidence: More randomized controlled trials will solidify PBM’s place in dry eye therapy. Device Innovation: The development of portable, affordable PBM devices for home use. Combination Therapies: Integration of PBM with treatments like radiofrequency therapy or thermal pulsation for enhanced effectiveness. Patient Awareness: Increased education and promotion of PBM therapy through media, expert endorsements, and clinical success stories. Conclusion Dry eye disease has long been a challenging condition to manage, but Photobiomodulation (PBM) shines a new light on treatment possibilities. By addressing the root causes of dry eye and providing safe, non-invasive relief, PBM therapy is transforming the way we approach ocular surface disorders. With ongoing advancements in technology and clinical research, PBM is poised to become a cornerstone of modern dry eye care. If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms, consider discussing PBM therapy with your eye care professional. Together, we can work toward a future where dry eyes no longer hold you back from living your best life.

February 14, 2023 at 9:05 AM UTC by psychiatrist.com Clinical Relevance: Early onset Alzheimer’s is on the rise in younger patients A case study reported on a 19-year-old, the youngest known patient to be diagnosed with probable Alzheimer’s disease. The teen showed a steady decline in memory and focus and medical studies found physiological markers for early onset of the disease. The patient tested negative for any known genetic markers of early Alzheimer’s which makes the case all the more rare and puzzling. A 19-year-old man in China is the youngest person ever to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The case, presented in a recent issue of the Journal for Alzheimer’s Disease, described a male teenager from Beijing who began experiencing gradual memory loss and difficulty concentrating at the age of 17. He was unable to recall where he placed his belongings or what had happened on the previous day and experienced delayed reactions and reading difficulties, the authors said. His scores on the World Health Organization-University of California Los Angeles Auditory Verbal Learning Test (WHO-UCLA AVLT) also confirmed severe memory impairment.  Based on his presentation the researchers performed extensive medical testing to diagnose the patient with probable Alzheimer’s. An imaging technique using 18F fluorodeoxyglucose to examine his brain revealed atrophy of the bilateral hippocampus and hypometabolism in the bilateral temporal lobe; these are early markers for the disease. Further studies of the patient’s cerebrospinal fluid showed an increased concentration of p-tau181 and a decreased amyloid-β 42/40 ratio. Whole-genome sequencing revealed no known gene mutations. Brain Atrophy in First-Episode Psychosis of the Elderly Association of Alopecia Areata and the Risk of Dementia Treatment Challenges and Emerging Therapies in Early-Stage Alzheimer Disease Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease is quite rare. Only 5 to 10 percent of cases are diagnosed in people under the age of 65, according to the latest update of the Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Health Index. However, the same report highlighted a 200 percent increase of Alzheimer’s diagnosis from 2013-2017 in people ages 30 to 64.  While no single cause has been identified, research indicates early onset of the disease likely results from multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle and environment. Likewise, experts recommend a multi-component approach to tailor treatments to each patient’s needs. There is no known cure for any form of Alzheimer’s though prompt diagnosis and early intervention has been shown to slow its progression.  “This case brings attention to the heterogeneous nature of dementia that can involve people at any age,” said George Perry, who is a professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio and the editor in chief of the journal. “Significantly, this finding may separate Alzheimer’s disease from the complexity of aging and open the field to new concepts to promote innovation.” Perry was not involved in the study.  What makes this case even more puzzling is the fact that unlike this teen, nearly all patients younger than 30 who are diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s possess pathological gene mutations. Previously, the youngest patient ever to have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s was a 21-year-old who carried a gene mutation known to be associated with the condition. “This is the youngest case ever reported to meet the diagnostic criteria for probable [Alzheimer’s disease] without recognised genetic mutations,” the authors said

What Happens if You Overload Your Brain? Science and Solutions Have you ever felt like your brain is moving through a thick fog? Tasks that once seemed easy, like finding the right words in a team meeting, now feel like a momentous challenge, and you struggle to focus, remember things, or even make simple decisions. If so, you might be experiencing brain overload. Our brains are powerful, but like any machine, they can become overwhelmed under constant pressure. For those us between the ages of 25-45, often juggling demanding careers, personal lives, and countless other responsibilities, brain fog and mental fatigue are increasingly common. But what exactly happens when you overload your brain, and more importantly, how can you fix it? Let's explore the science behind brain stress and some effective ways to keep your mind sharp and clear. The Science of Brain Overload: How Stress Affects Your Mind Your brain is a complex organ, responsible for managing everything from your thoughts and emotions to bodily functions like breathing and heartbeat. But it’s also vulnerable to chronic stress and overuse. When you're constantly bombarded with information, tasks, and responsibilities, your brain struggles to process everything efficiently. Over time, this leads to brain fog —a state of mental confusion or sluggishness. One of the main culprits behind brain overload is cortisol, the stress hormone. While a certain level of cortisol is necessary to handle daily challenges, prolonged exposure due to chronic stress can have serious consequences for your brain. High levels of cortisol can: • Impair your memory • Reduce your ability to focus • Slow down cognitive processes • Lead to anxiety and depression In other words, chronic stress makes it harder to think clearly, remember things, and stay sharp. Symptoms of Brain Overload Not sure if you’re experiencing brain overload? Here are some common symptoms: • Difficulty concentrating or focusing • Forgetfulness • Feeling mentally exhausted, even after minimal mental effort • Struggling with decision-making • Frequent headaches or migraines • Feeling unmotivated or irritable If you’re ticking off most of these symptoms, it might be time to take a step back and consider how to give your brain the relief it needs. Solutions: How to Relieve Stress and Clear Brain Fog Thankfully, brain overload isn’t permanent. With a few lifestyle changes, you can regain your mental clarity and feel more focused than ever. Here are some science-backed strategies to reduce stress and keep your brain performing at its best: Practice Mindfulness and Meditation Meditation has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and help clear brain fog. Just 10 minutes a day can make a big difference. Mindfulness, or focusing on the present moment without judgment, helps your brain slow down and process information more efficiently. Get Regular Exercise Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which boosts oxygen and nutrient delivery to brain cells. This can improve memory, focus, and overall brain function. A brisk walk or workout also releases endorphins, which help reduce stress. Maintain a Healthy Diet Your brain needs proper fuel to function. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins like B12 and D, which support cognitive health. Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar, as they can contribute to brain fog. Prioritize Sleep Sleep is essential for brain health. It’s during sleep that your brain processes memories, clears out toxins, and prepares for the next day. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your brain to recover from daily stress. Try Gamma Light Therapy Light therapy is a non-invasive technique that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate brain activity and improve mental clarity. Recent studies have shown that near-infrared gamma light waves can help regulate mitochondrial function in brain cells, enhancing their efficiency and reducing inflammation. Incorporating light therapy into your daily routine could be an effective way to manage stress and keep your brain functioning at its best. One innovative approach to light therapy is gamma light therapy, which has been found to improve focus, memory, and overall brain health. This technology is now available commercially and can be easily done at home, providing a simple, accessible way to support your cognitive function. For more information on Gamma light therapy and how it can improve your health, take a look here. From a Koushicare Brainband user: "I’m a 45-year-old customer relations manager who's been dealing with constant brain fog and mental exhaustion from long workdays. I stumbled upon gamma light therapy while researching natural ways to clear my mind. I ordered the Koushicare BrainBand, and it arrived within a few days. After the first week I used it, I felt a noticeable difference; my mind felt sharper, and I was able to focus on my work with much more clarity. After a week, my stress levels had dropped, and my productivity skyrocketed. It's been a game-changer for me!" Conclusion: Taking Steps Toward a Clearer Mind By implementing these strategies, you can reduce brain overload and enhance your mental health. Your brain is one of the most important tools you have, so it’s essential to take care of it. Whether it’s through mindfulness, regular exercise, a balanced diet, or light therapy, there are many ways to clear brain fog and keep your mind sharp. Ready to clear the fog and give your brain the care it deserves? Explore how Koushicare's gamma light therapy devices can support your brain health and help you perform at your best.