Menopausal Dry Eyes
As menopausal women, we often now talk about how our vaginas become dryer at this time of our lives, but other areas of our bodies can be affected in a similar way such, as our eyes.
Did you know that a reported 61% of women experience dry eye symptoms during the menopause, as declining hormones affect the production and quality of our tears?
There are tiny little glands in our eyelids called the Meibomian glands which produce oils which are essential for tear production, and Lacrimal glands which secrete fluid for tears to become inflamed and cause dryness.
Symptoms of dry eyes include:
- Tired eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Red eyes
- Experiencing scratchy or gritty eyes
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light.
There are things that we can do to help, which include the following:
- Limit our screen time and take frequent breaks away from our desks.
- Protect our eyes from wind and dry air.
- Use a humidifier to moisten the air.
- Increase our intake of Omega 3 fatty acids and Vit A.
Having a conversation with your pharmacist or optician is always helpful.