Why Menopause Can Cause Dry Eyes And What You Can Do About It
- Eyecare Plus Mermaid Beach Optometrists
- Sep 17
- 2 min read
Menopause is a natural stage of life, but it often comes with unexpected changes that go beyond hot flashes and mood swings. One of the most common, yet often overlooked, symptoms women experience during this time is dry eyes.
If your eyes feel gritty, irritated, or watery (yes, watery eyes can also be a sign of dryness), you’re not alone. In fact, studies show that over 60% of women experience dry eyes during menopause.
The good news? Relief is possible. Let’s explore why it happens and what you can do about it.
Why Menopause Affects Your Eyes
During menopause, hormone levels fluctuate and decline. These hormones play a role in tear production and eye surface health. When they change, your eyes may produce fewer tears, or the tears may evaporate too quickly.
This disruption can lead to dry eye disease, which causes discomfort and vision problems for many women in midlife.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes in Menopause
Every woman’s experience is different, but common signs include:
Burning or stinging sensations in the eyes
Gritty or sandy feeling
Excessive watering (the eye’s response to irritation)
Sensitivity to light
Redness or inflammation
Blurred or fluctuating vision
Trouble with contact lenses
If these symptoms sound familiar, you may be experiencing menopause-related dry eye.
The Link Between Menopause and Dry Eyes
Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:
Hormonal changes: Estrogen and progesterone influence tear film composition.
Reduced oil production: Meibomian glands (tiny glands along your eyelids) may not produce enough oil to prevent tears from evaporating.
Systemic changes: Menopause can also affect skin, mucous membranes, and overall hydration, which impacts the eyes too.
This combination makes menopausal women more likely to experience persistent dry eye symptoms.
What You Can Do for Relief
The good news is that dry eyes are highly treatable. Here are some ways to find relief:
Lifestyle & At-Home Tips
Stay hydrated: Aim for 6–8 glasses of water daily.
Eat omega-3 fatty acids: Found in salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts.
Take screen breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
Use a warm compress: Helps unblock oil glands in the eyelids.
Avoid smoke and dry air: Use a humidifier if needed.
Professional Treatments
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, professional eye care can make all the difference:
Specialised eye drops or ointments
In-office treatments to improve tear film stability
Don’t Let Dry Eyes Hold You Back
Dry eyes may seem like a minor annoyance, but they can impact your daily life, from reading and driving to enjoying quality time with loved ones. You don’t need to “just put up with it.”
At Eyecare Plus Mermaid Beach, we understand how menopause can affect your eyes and your quality of life. Our team offers tailored treatments to help you find comfort and clarity again.
Take the Next Step
If you’re experiencing dry eyes during menopause, book an appointment today. Relief is possible and you deserve to enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision.
