The Connection Between Menopause and Dry Eyes

Connection Between

What Is Menopause and How It Is Related to Dry Eyes and Health?

Menopause is the biological process that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle and reproductive years. The transition usually starts in the late 40s or early 50s and can last several years, with many of the symptoms, including dry eyes, being most common after the age of 40.

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What Causes Dry Eyes During Menopause?

The main cause of dry eyes during menopause is the natural decline in hormone production of estrogen. Estrogen helps protect the glands which produce tears and as it declines, the glands do not produce as many tears, leading to dry eyes.

How Can Menopause Affect Your Health?

Menopause can also have an effect on women’s overall health, particularly as it relates to heart health. Low estrogen levels can cause a decrease in HDL (good) cholesterol and an increase in LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease.

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How to Manage Dry Eyes During Menopause?

For many women, managing dry eyes during menopause is as simple as drinking more fluids and avoiding environments with dry, drafty air. But if these steps do not provide relief, there are over-the-counter lubricating eye drops that can be used to help relieve dry, red eyes.

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Conclusion

Menopause can cause a variety of symptoms and can have an impact on a woman’s health overall. One of the most common symptoms is dry eyes, which can cause discomfort and even lead to visual impairments. Managing dry eyes during menopause is essential for good eye health and can be done with simple lifestyle changes and over-the-counter lubricating eye drops.

Keywords: Menopause, Dry Eyes, Estrogen, Health, Heart Disease, Eye Drops