Menopause and Eye Care Guide: Tips for Healthy Vision

How Menopause Affects Your Eye Health

Let us understand the relationship between menopause and vision problems. A woman enters the menopausal and perimenopausal phase about 40 - 50 years of age. The hormonal imbalances combined with the ageing process can affect your eye health. 

Oestrogen hormone maintains tear film and promotes lubrication of your eyes. It also protects against age-related macular degeneration (a condition which affects the central part of the retina in your eyes). The hormone oestrogen also impacts intraocular pressure (the pressure inside your eye, which helps maintain the shape of your eyes and supports your eye function).

Progesterone hormone also influences the maintenance of intraocular pressure. Evidence shows the presence of progesterone hormone receptors in the cornea (black portion of your eyes). 

Even though there is evidence showing the relationship between menopause and eye health, the clinical manifestation and exact mechanism are still under research. In addition to this, individual responses vary from woman to woman. However, due to the coexistence of the menopausal period with the ageing process, the incidence of eye health problems during the menopausal phase is exceptionally high.

Common Vision Issues During Menopause

Menopausal Eye Care Tips

From the above, it's clear that it's not uncommon for hormonal fluctuations to affect vision and cause dryness or sensitivity to light. But don't worry; you can take steps to maintain good eye health during this time. Follow these pragmatic and practical tips.

Diet and Nutrients for Healthy Vision

Maintaining sound eye health is essential, and nutrition plays an important role. To protect your eyes from macular degeneration and other vision problems, consuming a diet abundant in antioxidants, vitamins A and Vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc is recommended. These nutrients help to strengthen the eyes' natural defence system, promote healthy blood flow, and prevent damage from free radicals. Therefore, incorporating these essential nutrients into your daily diet can help maintain your eye health and preserve your vision for years.

• Antioxidants: It protects your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Sources of antioxidants are fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
   
• Vitamin A: Vitamin A is essential for normal vision, especially night vision. Good sources of vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
   
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps protect your eyes from cataracts. Sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits.
   
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: They reduce inflammation and protect your eyes from dry eye syndrome. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include tuna (fatty fish) and flaxseeds.
   
• Zinc: Zinc is essential for healthy vision and helps protect your eyes from age-related macular degeneration. Sources of zinc include oysters, beef etc.

Hydration and Eye Health

Keeping your body hydrated is crucial for your well-being, and your eyes are no exception! Did you know that dehydration can cause your eyes to feel dry and uncomfortable? You might experience symptoms like itching, burning, and redness. So, drink plenty of water to keep your eyes and body happy and healthy!

• Always aim to drink a minimum of eight glasses of water per day.
   
• Intake plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are naturally high in water.
   
• Avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol.

Reducing Eye Strain

Have you ever experienced eye strain from staring at screens for too long? It's a common issue among many women who spend much time in front of screens. Symptoms like blurred vision, headaches, and fatigue can be a real pain. But don't worry; there are ways to prevent and alleviate eye strain.

• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, remember to take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away.
   
• Use Proper Lighting: Avoid working in dark or dimly lit rooms. Use a soft, non-glare light source.
   
• Adjust Your Screen Settings: Make sure your screen brightness and contrast are comfortable for your eyes.
   
• Take Breaks: Remember to get up and move around every 30 minutes to reduce eye strain.

Regular Eye Exams and Check-Ups

Regular eye examinations are essential for everyone, but they're essential for women during menopause. Why? Because women are more likely to develop dry eyes, presbyopia, and other vision problems during this time.

• Get a comprehensive eye examination every one to two years.
   
• Tell your eye doctor about any changes or differences in your vision or any eye problems you're experiencing.

The Ayurvedic Perception Of Eye Care

Ayurveda, the most acceptable and effective alternative medicine, has marvellous therapies and practices that can protect your eye health during menopause. Here is a glimpse of what ayurveda can do:

• Netra Tarpana: Therapeutic retention of medicated liquid over your eyes. It enhances your eyes' health and vision.
   
• Putapaka: Installation of medicated herbal juice over your eyes. 
   
• Anjana: Application of medicated collyrium.
   
• Aschotana: Medicated herbal eye drops.
   
• Seka: Eye therapy by pouring medicated liquid over your eyes in a continuous stream.
   
• Vidalaka: Apply the medicinal paste over your eyes.
   
• Pindi: Fasten medical bolus to the eyes

In addition to these procedures, there are a lot of effective herbal medical formulations that can take care of your eyes.

To Wrap It Up

As you move through the menopause phase, you must be mindful of your eye health. We understand that this can be challenging, but taking steps to understand the impact of hormonal changes, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and seeking professional guidance when necessary can help you maintain healthy eyesight and comfortable vision. You're not alone in this journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way.