The Eyes are the Window of the Soul

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: December 12, 2024

Written by Karen Giblin-Red Hot Mamas North America, Inc.  www.redhotmamas.org

Our hormones fluctuate throughout our lives which affects the equilibrium in our eyes.

More research is needed to understand how these hormonal fluctuations interact with the structures in your eyes. However, it’s clear that menopause is a contributing factor to acute or chronic dry eye.

 

Dry eyes are an especially common problem at the time of menopause. It is estimated to affect 3.25 million women aged 50 and older.

Dry eyes can be uncomfortable and may cause a stinging or burning sensation. Dry eyes can also cause scratchiness and a sensation that something may be stuck in your eye. A lack of tears in your eyes can also make you very sensitive to light, causing you to have difficulty to drive or be outside without having sunglasses on.

If you have dry eyes, it is important to pay attention to the situations that may cause your symptoms and ways in which you can prevent these symptoms such as:

• Pay attention to the beauty products getting in your eyes: shampoo, conditioner, face cleanser, hair spray.
• Air blowing in your eyes – Don’t direct air conditioning, fans, car heaters and your hair dryer toward your eyesWear sunglasses to block wind and dry air
• Watch the environment – High altitudes, desert areas, airplanes can be very dry
• Use a humidifier moistening the air in your home may help
• Limit your computer screen time and have your computer below eye level – By doing this, your eyes don’t have to be wide open and this helps slow evaporation of your tears from eye blinks
• Stop smoking – Smoking can worsen dry eye symptoms
• Use artificial tears regularly to keep your eyes well lubricated even when your eyes feel fine. There are drops, gels, gel inserts and ointments available.
• Have regular eye examinations – This will help detect problems at the earliest stage.

Your doctor may recommend certain lifestyle changes, trying OTC medication and if your symptoms persist, your doctor may advise you on your options for treatment and/or recommend prescription medication.