Clinical evidence suggests that ingestion of omega-3 fish oils decreases the inflammation seen in rheumatoid arthritis (joint disease) and in dermatitis (skin disease). These anti-inflammatory effects help explain how omega-3 fish oils have been useful in helping patients with symptoms of posterior blepharitis (eyelid margin disease) or meibomitis (eyelid glandular disease).
The use of long chain omega-3 (fish oil) and short chain omega-3 (flaxseed oil) assist in decreasing inflammation and augment the oil and water layers of the tear film. This benefit is important for patients who suffer from dry eye syndrome.