Women’s Vision, Understanding Risks and Protecting It
How hormones affect women’s vision
How hormones affect women’s vision
Women’s bodies make different hormones than men’s bodies. These hormones control things like periods, pregnancy, and menopause. Hormones can also affect vision. Studies show parts of the eye respond to changes in hormones.
Big hormone changes happen during:
Puberty
- Girls start making more oestrogen and progesterone.
- This causes periods and body changes.
- Studies show eye measurements like prescription change during cycles.
Pregnancy
- New hormones are made, like hCG and hPL.
- They can cause temporary vision issues like:
- Dry eyes
- Blurry vision
- Problems seeing near or far
Menopause
- Oestrogen levels drop a lot.
- This often causes dry eye syndrome.
- Menopause may also raise glaucoma risk.
How Age Affects Women’s Vision
As women get older, they are more likely to have:
- Cataracts — clouding in the lens
- Glaucoma — high eye pressure damaging the optic nerve
- Macular degeneration — loss of central vision
- Retinal detachment — retina separates from the back of the eye
Studies show women have higher rates of these eye diseases than men as they age.
Autoimmune Diseases and Vision
- Women are more prone to autoimmune diseases.
- This is likely due to genetics and hormones.
- Some autoimmune diseases like lupus and Graves’ disease affect the eyes.
- They can cause inflammation, dryness, bulging eyes, and other symptoms.
Diabetes and Vision
- Diabetes is more common in men.
- But, women with diabetes are more likely to have complications like heart disease.
- Diabetes can lead to diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and blindness.
Protecting Your Vision
To keep your eyes healthy,
Get Regular Eye Exams
- Eye exams help detect issues early.
- Women 18–60 should have exams every 1–2 years.
- High-risk women should get yearly exams.
Know Your Family History
- Many eye diseases are genetic.
- Tell your eye doctor about any family eye conditions.
Stop Smoking
- Smoking raises the risk of vision loss.
- Take steps to quit smoking.
Wear Sunglasses Outside
- Sunglasses protect from UV rays.
- Make sure they block 99–100% of UVA/UVB rays.
Eat a Healthy Diet
- Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
- Take supplements like vitamins A, C, E and zinc.
Exercise Regularly
- Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
- This helps lower the risk of eye diseases.
➡ References:
(716) What No One Tells You About Your Hormones And Their Impact On Your Vision — YouTube
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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