Menopausal dry eyes are a common yet often overlooked symptom of menopause, affecting more than 60% of perimenopausal and menopausal women. Here’s some information on menopausal dry eyes and tips for managing the condition:
Symptoms of Dry Eyes:
– Burning sensation in the eyes
– Itching or irritation
– Redness
– Feeling of grittiness or foreign body sensation
– Excessive tearing
– Blurred vision
Dry eyes can exacerbate allergy symptoms and make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable.
Dry Eye Treatments:
– Artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help alleviate dryness and discomfort.
– Eyelid hygiene: Eyelid hygiene kits and warm compresses can help improve the function of oil-producing glands in the eyelids.
– Oral antibiotics: In some cases, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
– Corticosteroid eye drops: These may be recommended for severe cases of dry eye to reduce inflammation.
Punctal plugs, tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to prevent drainage, may also be considered.
Dry Eyes and Hormone Replacement Therapy:
– Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be prescribed to alleviate menopausal symptoms, but it can increase the risk of dry eyes.
– Alternative approaches to managing menopausal symptoms include herbal supplements, vitamin D, acupuncture, massage, yoga, and mindful breathing.
Lifestyle Changes:
– Minimize exposure to drafts and windy environments.
– Wear wrap-around sunglasses outdoors to protect against environmental factors.
– Adjust the height of computer screens to reduce tear evaporation while working.
Dry Eyes and Sjogren’s Syndrome:
– Dry eyes and dry mouth can also be early signs of Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder.
– Consult a doctor if you experience dry eyes and dry mouth to rule out Sjogren’s syndrome.
If home remedies and over-the-counter treatments don’t provide relief, it’s essential to consult an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam and personalized treatment recommendations.
