Can menopause cause eye problems? Doctor explains link, shares prevention tips

Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can lead to dry eyes, which is triggered by multiple factors. Here's how you can prevent it.

During perimenopause and menopause, a women’s body goes through drastic hormonal changes. While these hormonal changes show up as other health complications, it’s effect on eyes is quite overlooked. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Savitha Arun, director, medical superintendent and senior consultant – anterior segment and electrophysiology, Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Bangalore said, “Hormonal changes during menopause significantly impact ocular health, primarily due to reduced levels of estrogen and androgens. These hormonal shifts result in decreased tear production, contributing to dry eye symptoms such as irritation, redness, a gritty sensation, and eye fatigue.”

Menopause and dry eyes: What's the link?

Menopause can lead to irritation, redness, a gritty sensation, and eye fatigue. (Shutterstock)

“The most common eye condition is dry eye. While glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can occur, they are not solely caused by menopause. These conditions are often related to oxidative stress and other age-related factors. Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to these conditions but are not the sole cause. Dry eye, however, is very commonly exacerbated by menopausal hormonal changes,” explained Dr Savitha Arun.

Factors that can lead to dry eyes:

“Dry eye is usually a combination of factors, including hormonal changes, diabetes, environmental conditions (like dry air or excessive screen time). There are grading systems to assess the severity (mild, moderate, severe), but identifying a singular cause—such as hormones—is clinically challenging, as multiple factors including lifestyle, diabetes, and environmental exposure contribute to the condition,” the doctor highlighted.

Here's how menopause can affect your eyes.

Estrogen fluctuations can cause eye problems?

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.