Seeing the Change: Why Eye Care Matters During Menopause
World Menopause Day on October 18th highlighted the significant changes women navigate. As hormone levels fluctuate during perimenopause and menopause, many women notice unexpected changes in their eyes. Veronica Nellins, Optometrist from John Laverty Optometrists, explains that expert eye care and simple treatments can make all the difference. She stresses that regular check-ups are key to maintaining long-term comfort and clarity.
Menopause is often discussed in terms of hot flushes, sleep disruption and mood changes, but one area frequently overlooked is its impact on eye health.
The hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause can have a profound effect on vision and ocular comfort – yet many women are unaware that their eyes are part of the story.
Falling levels of oestrogen and androgens influence the tear film and the quality of the ocular surface. As a result, many women experience dry, gritty or watery eyes – a condition known as dry eye syndrome.
This can make contact lenses wear uncomfortable and cause blurred vision, light sensitivity and fluctuating clarity of sight. Hormonal changes may also affect the shape of the eye itself, which can lead to vision shifts and can increase the risk of conditions such as blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter
Menopause can coincide with other eye health risks where early detection is crucial. We like to recommend preventive eye care, rather than reactive where possible.
Regular eye examinations – ideally every two years, or more frequently if symptoms arise – are vital.
In John Laverty Optometrists, we provide a dry eye clinic, which includes private appointment with an expert Optometrist who can offer changes and tailored management for dryness, including lubricating drops, eyelid hygiene advice, or recommending appropriate exercises to improve tear quality.
Open conversations between women and their Optometrists can make a real difference. Understanding that menopause can affect the eyes empowers women to seek timely advice and protect their long-term vision.
It also gives us an opportunity to dispel any myths that float around on social media and answer any questions you may have.
Prioritising Eye Comfort
Menopause marks a natural transition – but it shouldn’t mean accepting discomfort or declining sight.
Prioritising regular eye checks ensures women continue to see clearly and comfortably through every stage of life.
📍 John Laverty Optometrists
Ballymoney | Coleraine | Garvagh
📞 Call us today on 028 7034 2624
🌐 www.johnlaverty.co.uk
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