How Menopause Affects Eyes? Expert Lists Tips To Manage Eye Health

Tips To Manage Eye Health During Menopause: A natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years, menopause brings about various physical and emotional changes. While most discussions focus on symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, the impact of menopause on eye health is often overlooked. Understanding these changes is crucial for maintaining eye health during this transition.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Sridevi Haldar, Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon, OrthoVision Clinic, Noida said that during menopause, the body undergoes a significant decrease in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a vital role beyond reproductive health; it also affects various tissues throughout the body, including those in the eyes. 

How Menopause Affects Eyes

1. Dry Eyes: One of the most common issues women face during menopause is dry eye syndrome. Estrogen helps maintain the health of the tear ducts and the production of tears. A decrease in estrogen can result in reduced tear production, leading to dryness, irritation, and discomfort.

2. Changes in Corneal Sensitivity: Reduced hormone levels can affect the cornea, leading to changes in sensitivity. This can make women more susceptible to environmental irritants and allergens, resulting in increased discomfort and redness.

3. Increased Risk of Eye Conditions: The hormonal changes associated with menopause may increase the risk of developing certain eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma. Women may also experience a higher likelihood of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, during menopause.

4. Vision Changes: Some women report experiencing changes in vision during menopause, including difficulty focusing on objects, especially at near distances. This may be related to hormonal fluctuations and the natural ageing process of the eye.

Tips To Manage Eye Health (Image Credits: Canva)

Managing Eye Health During Menopause

While the changes in eye health during menopause can be concerning, there are several strategies women can adopt to manage these effects:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain overall health, including eye moisture. Aim for at least eight glasses a day to support tear production.

2. Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief from dry eyes. These lubricating drops can help alleviate discomfort and protect the surface of the eyes.

3. Regular Eye Exams: Regular visits to an eye care professional are essential. They can monitor eye health, detect any early signs of conditions, and recommend appropriate treatments.

4. Protect Your Eyes: Wearing sunglasses with UV protection can help shield the eyes from harmful rays and reduce the risk of cataracts. Additionally, using protective eyewear in harsh environments can prevent irritation.

5. Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): For some women, HRT may help alleviate menopausal symptoms, including dry eyes. However, this option should be discussed with a healthcare provider, as it may not be suitable for everyone.

6. Healthy Diet: A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can support eye health. Foods such as fish, leafy greens, and nuts can help reduce inflammation and promote overall ocular wellness.

7. Limit Screen Time: Prolonged computer and device use can exacerbate dry eyes. Implementing the 20-20-20 rule, taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes can help reduce eye strain.
Conclusion

ALSO READ: Worst Foods For Eye Health: Avoid These 5 Foods To Prevent Eye Diseases

ALSO READ: Expert-Recommended Tips To Avoid Dry Eyes In An Air-Conditioned Workspace