Menopause, Hormones & Your Eyes: Vision Changes We Don’t Talk About Enough
Menopause brings many well-known changes—hot flashes, mood shifts, and changes in skin tone or texture—but one area that often goes unmentioned is how hormonal changes affect your eyes.
At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, we see many women in Maryville who are surprised to learn that dry eye, blurred vision, and even changes in tear production can be part of this natural transition. Understanding the link between hormones, skin, and ocular health can help you protect your eyes and stay comfortable at every stage of life.
The Hormone Connection: What Happens During Menopause
As estrogen and progesterone levels decline, several body systems—including the eyes—are affected. These hormonal shifts can:
- Reduce tear production, leading to chronic dry eye.
- Alter the tear film composition, making tears evaporate more quickly.
- Affect corneal sensitivity, sometimes changing how contact lenses feel or fit.
- Cause vision fluctuations, especially if you’re nearing the need for reading glasses (presbyopia).
If you’ve had LASIK or wear contact lenses, you may notice dryness or irritation more intensely during menopause.
Why Dry Eye Becomes More Common
Dry eye disease affects millions of Americans, but it’s particularly common among women in midlife and beyond. Menopause alters the balance of the meibomian glands—tiny oil-producing glands in your eyelids that keep tears from evaporating too quickly.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning, itching, or watery eyes
- A gritty, “foreign body” feeling
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Sensitivity to wind or light
Skin & Eye Health: Two Sides of the Same Story
The same hormonal changes that thin and dry your skin can also impact your eyes. Reduced oil production affects both skin moisture and tear stability. If you use facial products with active ingredients like retinoids or acids, be careful not to apply them too close to your eyelids—these can worsen dryness or irritation.
Tips to Protect Your Eyes During Menopause
- Use preservative-free artificial tears throughout the day.
- Stay hydrated—water and omega-3-rich foods support tear quality.
- Reduce screen time when possible and remember to blink frequently.
- Use a humidifier at home to combat indoor dryness.
- Protect eyes outdoors with wraparound sunglasses to block wind and UV rays.
- Schedule routine eye exams to monitor changes in vision or tear film health.
Menopause Related Dry Eye, Maryville, TN
If you’re experiencing dryness, irritation, or vision changes, our Maryville eye care team can help. We offer comprehensive dry eye evaluations using advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatments—from prescription therapies to in-office procedures that restore healthy tear function.
Menopause is a natural stage of life—but you don’t have to live with discomfort. With the right care, your eyes can feel as refreshed as the rest of your wellness routine.
Take Charge of Your Eye Health Today
If you’re noticing changes in your vision or eye comfort, schedule an appointment with our Maryville office at Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun. We’ll help you find lasting relief and keep your eyes healthy for years to come.