All diuretics are known to cause which ocular side effect?

All diuretics are known to cause which ocular side effect?

• A. Dry eye
• B. Cataracts
• C. Retinal detachment
• D. Uveitis

Answer: (A)

Diuretics can lead to systemic dehydration and electrolyte changes that affect the eye’s surface. When body fluids are reduced, tear production can drop and the tear film becomes less stable, causing dryness, irritation, and a gritty or burning sensation—classic signs of dry eye. Other ocular conditions like cataracts, retinal detachment, or uveitis are not typical side effects of diuretics, so dry eye is the most plausible association. If dryness occurs, lubricating eye drops and ensuring adequate hydration can help, with a clinician reviewing the med regimen if symptoms persist.

Diuretics can lead to systemic dehydration and electrolyte changes that affect the eye’s surface. When body fluids are reduced, tear production can drop and the tear film becomes less stable, causing dryness, irritation, and a gritty or burning sensation—classic signs of dry eye. Other ocular conditions like cataracts, retinal detachment, or uveitis are not typical side effects of diuretics, so dry eye is the most plausible association. If dryness occurs, lubricating eye drops and ensuring adequate hydration can help, with a clinician reviewing the med regimen if symptoms persist.