Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon Highlights Menopause's Impact on Eye Health

What's Happening?

Menopause is widely recognized for symptoms such as hot flushes and disrupted sleep, but its impact on eye health is less known. Consultant ophthalmic surgeon Marcela Espinosa-Lagana emphasizes that menopause can lead to dry eyes, irritation, and visual changes. While initially thought to be linked to lower estrogen levels, recent research suggests androgens like testosterone may be responsible. Espinosa-Lagana advises women experiencing these symptoms to seek help and explore treatment options, including hormone replacement therapy and steroid eye drops. Simple remedies like warm compresses and lubricating eye drops can alleviate mild symptoms.

Why It's Important?

Understanding the full range of menopause symptoms is crucial for women's health, as many may suffer in silence due to lack of awareness. Eye health is vital for daily functioning, and untreated symptoms can lead to discomfort and potential complications. Raising awareness encourages women to seek medical advice and treatment, improving their quality of life. This highlights the need for comprehensive education on menopause, ensuring women are informed about all possible symptoms and available treatments.

What's Next?

Women experiencing persistent dry eye symptoms should consult their GP, especially if home treatments are ineffective. Hormone replacement therapy may be considered if symptoms are hormonally driven. Regular eye checks and exploring treatment options are recommended to manage symptoms effectively. The NHS advises seeing a GP if symptoms persist or if there are changes to the eyelids.

Beyond the Headlines

The broader implications of menopause on women's health extend beyond physical symptoms, affecting mental health and quality of life. Increased awareness and education can empower women to seek help and manage symptoms proactively. This development underscores the importance of integrating menopause education into healthcare and societal discussions.