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From children glued to tablets to grandparents with dry eyes, tired eyes affect every generation. A gentle look at how traditional Chinese medicine describes them, plus everyday care ideas.

Every age, a different kind of tired

In most households someone has tired eyes. Teenagers finish homework on a laptop, parents scroll their phones after the children are asleep, and older relatives often notice their eyes feel drier than they used to. At Rainbow Caring in Lane Cove and Freshwater, families sometimes ask how traditional Chinese medicine thinks about these familiar complaints.

A traditional picture of healthy eyes

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, the liver sends its energy upward to the eyes, and liver blood keeps them moist. Traditionally, eyes nourished in this way are described as bright and clear, seeing well both in daylight and at dusk.

Signs TCM looks for

Red, warm or itchy eyes

TCM describes an unsettled liver as producing heat that rises to the head. Red, itchy or irritated eyes and a flushed face fit this traditional picture. Grown-ups may recognise it after a late celebration, since alcohol is regarded as heating in Chinese food theory.

Dry eyes and floaters

Dryness and drifting specks in the field of vision are traditionally linked with a shortage of liver blood. In older family members, TCM may also point to the kidney, which is said to keep the body supple; low kidney yin is associated with dry eyes, dry skin and creaky joints.

Little twitches

Fluttering eyelids, tics or itch that moves around are described as Internal Wind, a pattern thought to appear when the body's reserves run low.

Family-friendly habits

• Set screen-free times for everyone, adults included.
• Encourage outdoor play and regular bedtimes for children.
• Keep a water bottle handy for each family member.
• Arrange regular eye checks, especially for children and older relatives.

If anyone in the family has sore, sticky or very red eyes, or a change in vision, see your GP or optometrist first. Some families choose gentle acupuncture as part of their self-care, and we always encourage them to keep their doctor informed.