According to many eye experts, women are more likely to experience eye-related problems than men. In general, women have a longer life expectancy than men, making them more at risk for degenerative eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts. Hormonal changes can also make women more prone to dry eye and changes in prescription.
Unfortunately, only less than 10% are aware of this concern. In today’s article, Eyes on Norbeck, a top provider of prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses, discusses three common eye issues most women may face.
Cataracts
Cataracts are the world’s leading cause of blindness. As time goes by, the lens in your eye becomes cloudy and yellow, eventually forming a cataract. The cataract blocks light, making it difficult for people to see clearly. Here are some ways you can slow the development of cataracts:
- Protect your eyes. Wear a hat when going outside, or use sunglasses with 100% UV protection to block the sun from your eyes.
- Eat healthily. Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep your eyes healthy.
- Lose weight. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, which may cause cataracts.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking may increase the risk of developing cataracts.
Dry Eye Syndrome
During pregnancy and menopause, women may experience hormonal changes that can cause dry eye syndrome. Doctors may prescribe hormone replacement therapy or fertility treatments to cope, but these may affect their vision and lead to dry eye and corneal swelling. In addition to that, women may also experience dry eyes as they get older since their bodies produce less oil over time, making it easier for water in the eyes to evaporate.
To protect your vision from dry eye syndrome, it’s best to see your doctor regularly. Your optometrist may prescribe lubricating drops to relieve dry eyes or insert plugs in the tear ducts to reduce the fluid drainage. A healthy diet consisting of foods rich in vitamins and minerals, including citrus fruits, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables, can also improve vision.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye condition that damages the optic nerve. While it affects both men and women, women are two to four times more likely to experience closed-angle glaucoma, a more dangerous type of glaucoma. This is because women’s eyes tend to be smaller in shape compared to men, causing fluid to drain more slowly from their eyes and increasing pressure.
If you are at risk for glaucoma, your eye doctor may prescribe eye drops to lower the eye pressure. You should also watch out for any vision changes that may develop. If you detect changes, schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. In situations wherein pressure has developed in the eye, surgery may be required to improve fluid drainage.
To ensure your eyesight remains healthy, visit the eye care professionals at Eyes on Norbeck for an eye exam! Call us today at (301) 238-7199 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve residents of Potomac, MD, and the surrounding communities.
