Final answer:
Xerophthalmia is a condition that refers to dryness and damage to the eyes due to a deficiency of vitamin A. It is commonly seen in areas where vitamin A deficiency is prevalent, especially in developing countries. Treatment usually involves vitamin A supplementation and addressing the underlying nutritional deficiencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Xerophthalmia is a condition that refers to dryness and damage to the eyes due to a deficiency of vitamin A. It is commonly seen in areas where vitamin A deficiency is prevalent, especially in developing countries. The lack of vitamin A affects the ability of the eyes to produce tears and maintain a healthy cornea, leading to symptoms such as dry eyes, night blindness, and eventually, damage to the cornea.
The primary cause of xerophthalmia is a lack of dietary intake of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy eyes. Vitamin A is found in foods such as carrots, liver, spinach, and sweet potatoes. When the body doesn't receive enough vitamin A, the tear production decreases, resulting in dryness and damage to the eyes. Treatment usually involves vitamin A supplementation and addressing the underlying nutritional deficiencies.