Menopause & Eye Problems

Menopause is a natural biological process for women; it is neither a disease nor an illness. With menopause, some women may experience eye problems. Eye problems can have underlying causes, be age-related or are caused by diet.

Underlying

• The causes of eye problems can be due to underlying health condition like diabetes, kidney and liver problems, diminished circulation to the eyes, buildup of toxins in the body and longtime damage from UV radiation.

Age-Related

• Eye problems that occur during menopause can also be age-related. Age-related degeneration can be the cause of cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma.

Dry Eyes

• Dry eyes affect about 60 percent of women who are menopausal. Untreated dry eye can cause the cornea to develop ulcers, become scarred and become infected.

Diet

• An inadequate diet can cause eye problems. Antioxidant-rich foods such as spinach and carrots, as well as lutein supplements, are necessary for eye health. A basic defense against cataracts are supplements of vitamins E, C, B complex, beta-carotene and selenium.

Warning

• Macular degeneration can occur during menopause and is the leading cause of blindness in the western world. Macular degeneration is caused by free-radical damage and decreased blood and oxygen supply to the eyes.