Dry eye syndrome is a chronic condition affecting many women during and after menopause due to hormonal changes that impact oil gland function in the eyelids.

Dry eye syndrome is a common chronic condition that frequently affects women during perimenopause and beyond. Research indicates that approximately half of all women in the menopausal transition experience symptoms, which can include grittiness, redness, swelling, and light sensitivity.

Hormonal Links to Eye Health

Optometrist Lauren Gormley of the Wilmer Eye Institute explains that dry eye occurs when eyes fail to produce sufficient tears or when tears do not function correctly. A primary cause is the dysfunction of oil glands in the eyelids, which normally prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. As androgen levels decline during menopause, these glands produce less or lower-quality oil, leading to faster tear evaporation and inflammation of the ocular surface. Studies show that the rate of dry eye in women over 50 is double that of men in the same age group.

Contributing Factors and Treatment

Beyond hormonal changes, daily habits and external factors contribute to the condition. Kelly Nichols, dean of the School of Optometry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, notes that frequent screen use reduces blinking, which prevents tears from spreading properly. Other contributors include contact lens wear, certain medications like antidepressants and blood pressure drugs, allergies, and skin conditions such as rosacea. Treatments range from warm compresses and over-the-counter drops to prescription medications and in-office procedures, though the latter may be costly and often lack insurance coverage.