Menopause affects visual health

• April 19, 2024

Many women are unaware that changes Physical and emotional during this important stage of life, can also manifest in the eyes. That is why it is important to know the state of women's visual health, especially those who are in the middle of menopause.

Clinical studies, such as those conducted by the Spanish Society of Ophthalmology, have shown that the Dry Eye Syndrome (SOS) is closely related to the onset of menopause .

It happens because the surfaces of the conjunctiva and the cornea they contain receptors that, by effect, of the sex hormones, modify the quality and quantity of the tear film. This problem is corrected by the use of special eye drops or false tears that must be prescribed by an ophthalmologist.

Other symptoms have to do with alterations in the curvature of the cornea that, despite being related to age and presbyopia, worsen visual acuity and quality.

Effects of hormone replacement therapies

It is possible that some hormone replacement therapies (HRT) affect the health of the eyes, either by producing sensible changes in visual function or by increasing the ailments that they already had.

Sometimes, the symptoms of SOS get worse; In the case of people operated on with a corneal refractive surgery procedure to improve their vision, there may be regressions.

Many women have difficulty wearing contact lenses and, in the most severe cases, may experience double vision.

Warning symptoms

Menopause provides the opportunity to get back in touch with the body and the senses.

Thanks to this experience, women can be more attentive to any alteration in their eyes and get to feel, for example, some strange bodies at eye level, perceive tearing by one or both eyes, or notice that their visual acuity diminishes, even after of having been operated.

Finally, it is important to know that the risk of cataract formation in menopausal women is great, as well as the risk of degeneration of the macula of the eye. In case of any change in the quality of vision, visiting the doctor is always recommended.
 

Video Medicine: 9 Serious Eye Symptoms to Watch Out For (April 2024).