Tackling Dry Eye Syndrome During Menopause

As we approach World Menopause Day on 18th October, Belle looks at a lesser-known symptom of menopause – dry eye syndrome. We spoke with Dr Hakam Ghabra of Harley Street Eye Centre to ask why this common symptom often goes untreated or unrecognised as a side effect of menopause, and to ask what can be done to ease the discomfort and pain associated with dry eyes.

Dr Ghabra told us: “Menopause can bring about many changes, and dry eyes are a common one that can affect a woman’s daily life. If you’re going through menopause, you may have noticed your eyes feeling gritty, itchy, or like something is stuck in them. This is often because your body isn’t producing tears the way it used to, leading to dryness.”

So, why does this happen? This is what Dr Ghabra told us…

Why Menopause Leads to Dry Eyes:

1. Hormonal Changes: During menopause, your body produces less estrogen and androgens (hormones that help with various body functions). These hormones are crucial for maintaining moisture in the eyes, so when levels drop, you may experience dry eyes?(All About Vision)?(Optometrists.org).
2. Reduced Tear Production: The glands in your eyes that produce tears, such as the lacrimal glands, are affected by these hormonal changes. As a result, they may not produce enough watery tears, leading to a condition known as “aqueous-deficient dry eye” (basically, your eyes aren’t making enough tears)?(All About Vision).
3. Evaporative Dry Eye: Menopause can also affect the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing an oily layer in your tears that prevents them from evaporating too quickly. When these glands don’t work well, your tears evaporate faster, leaving your eyes dry?(All About Vision)?(Optometrists.org).
4. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): While HRT can help with some menopausal symptoms, it may also make dry eyes worse by interfering with the glands that produce tears?(Optometrists.org)?(Verywell Health).
5. Increased Inflammation: Hormonal imbalances during menopause can increase inflammation around the eyes, contributing to irritation and dryness?(Optometrists.org).

What You Can Do to Manage Dry Eyes During Menopause:

Now that you know why menopause causes dry eyes, let’s talk about what you can do about it. The good news is that there are many things you can try at home, as well as options your eye doctor can provide.

1. Visit an Eye Doctor: First things first, see your eye doctor regularly. They can offer treatments like prescription eye drops or punctal plugs (tiny devices that block your tear ducts to keep more tears in your eyes)?(Optometrists.org).
2. Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief by keeping your eyes lubricated. If you find that they aren’t lasting long enough, try using a thicker gel or ointment, especially before bed?(Verywell Health).
3. Warm Compresses: Placing a warm, damp cloth over your eyes for a few minutes can help unblock the meibomian glands and improve the oily layer of your tears, preventing them from evaporating too quickly?(Optometrists.org).
4. Keep the Air Moist: Dry air can make dry eyes worse, especially if you’re in air-conditioned or heated environments. A humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, which can make a big difference for your eyes?(Verywell Health).
5. Blink More: This might sound simple, but when we’re focused on tasks like reading or looking at a screen, we tend to blink less. Make a conscious effort to blink more often to spread tears evenly across your eyes?(Optometrists.org).
6. Avoid Irritants: Smoke, wind, and pollution can all irritate your eyes and make dryness worse. Try to avoid smoking or being in smoky environments, and when you’re outside, wearing wraparound sunglasses can help protect your eyes from wind and dust?(Optometrists.org).
7. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water not only benefits your overall health but can also help keep your eyes hydrated. Dehydration can worsen dry eye symptoms, so make sure you’re getting enough fluids throughout the day?(All About Vision).
8. Eat Omega-3s: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can help reduce inflammation and improve the quality of your tears. If you’re not getting enough through your diet, you might want to consider a supplement?(Verywell Health)?(Optometrists.org).
9. Practice Good Eyelid Hygiene: Keeping your eyelids clean can help prevent blockages in the meibomian glands. Gently scrubbing your eyelids with a warm washcloth or using specialized eyelid wipes can help reduce inflammation and improve tear production?(Optometrists.org).
10. Adjust Your Environment: If you spend a lot of time working at a computer, try lowering your screen so that your eyes aren’t fully open when you look at it. This can help reduce tear evaporation. Also, avoid direct drafts from fans or air conditioning?(Optometrists.org).

Dr Ghabra says: “By taking a few simple steps at home and working closely with your eye doctor, you can manage dry eye symptoms during menopause. Remember, regular checkups are important to ensure that your treatment plan is effective and tailored to your needs.”