Women often prioritize their overall health, but their eye health can sometimes fall by the wayside. This Women’s Eye Health & Safety Month, let’s discuss the unique eye health concerns that women face and the steps we can take to protect our vision.
Hormones and vision
Hormonal changes can have a significant impact on a woman’s vision. Changes in estrogen levels during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can lead to dry eye syndrome, which can cause eye discomfort and affect visual acuity. Moreover, hormonal changes can increase the risk of developing eye conditions, such as glaucoma and cataracts.
Pregnancy and vision
Pregnancy can also affect a woman’s eye health. Pregnancy-related changes, such as fluid retention and hormonal changes, can cause vision changes, such as blurry vision or double vision. Additionally, pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes, a condition that can lead to diabetic retinopathy, a severe eye condition that can cause vision loss.
Age-related eye conditions
Women are also more likely than men to develop age-related eye conditions, such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Moreover, women have a longer life expectancy than men, which means that they are at a higher risk of developing these conditions as they age.
Protecting your eye health
Due to these concerns, women of all ages should take steps to protect their eye health. These include:
Regular eye exams
Women should schedule regular comprehensive eye exams to detect eye conditions early on and prevent vision loss. Eye exams are especially crucial for women who are pregnant or have a family history of eye conditions.
Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle can help protect your vision. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, such as leafy greens, carrots, and fish, can help prevent age-related eye conditions. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can improve overall health and reduce the risk of developing diabetes and other underlying health conditions that can affect eye health.
Eye protection
Wearing protective eyewear, such as safety glasses or goggles, is a good idea for women who take part in activities that can harm their eyes, such as sports, DIY projects, and even household chores. In addition, women who work in occupations that present potential eye hazards, such as construction or manufacturing, should wear protective eyewear on the job.
Women’s Eye Health & Safety Month is an excellent reminder for women to prioritize their eye health. If you’re noticing vision changes, contact us today to schedule an eye exam!
