Did you know that around 61% of women going through menopause suffer from dry eyes? This is because they go through hormonal changes during menopause, such as producing lower levels of estrogen and progesterone. This impacts your body’s health and can cause certain symptoms that lead to dry eyes. To understand more about dry eyes during menopause and how it can be treated, eye care specialist Six One Six Vision Center shares their insight:
Dry eyes can happen to anyone, regardless of sex. It also happens more often to those who are 50 years and older. But older women who have gone or are going through menopause are more likely to get dry eyes because of their decrease in sex hormones. The decrease of estrogen and androgen particularly affects the meibomian and lacrimal glands in the eyelids, which normally produce the oil and fluids for the eyes. This means tear production gets affected and results in dry eyes.
If your eyes feel itchy or you have blurred vision, that can indicate that you have dry eyes. Other symptoms include red eyes and your eyelids swelling, along with a gritty feeling and a foreign sensation in your eyes. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms during or after menopause, have it checked by a trusted eye doctor as soon as possible.
Some over-the-counter medications can treat dry eyes to a certain degree and ease some of your symptoms. But you need to be aware that some products will have preservatives that can irritate your eyes if used too much. You might be thinking about applying lubricating gels and ointments, but you’ll also risk temporarily clouding your vision while in use. To avoid worsening the condition unknowingly, get your dry eyes professionally treated.
If you’re looking for a locally trusted optometrist for your eye exam, Six One Six Vision Center is a name you can truly count on. Set up an appointment today by calling or texting our office at (208) 514-1858! We serve our customers in Idaho, including Boise, Eagle, and the surrounding areas.
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