More than four in 10 women have experienced dry eyes as a result of the menopause, according to new research. Women reported that the menopause caused their eyes to feel gritty, itchy, blurry, and even sensitive to light. A TV doctor has revealed her top tips to combat dry eyes and other lesser-known symptoms of menopause that often go untreated, including electric shock feelings and burning tongues.
Impact on Daily Life
As a result of dry eyes, many struggled with everyday tasks like working on a computer (58%), reading (50%), driving (33%), or even spending time outdoors due to sunlight or wind exacerbating the problem (33%). Only 23% of women experiencing menopause and perimenopause were aware that dry eyes were a symptom.
Dr Zoe Williams, resident doctor on This Morning, has highlighted some of the most aggravating daily symptoms no one talks about, from dry eyes to burning tongues, tingling hands and feet to itchy or crawling skin.
Dr Zoe Williams' Advice
Dr Zoe Williams, who has partnered with Specsavers to highlight the support available for dry eyes, said: “Hormonal fluctuations, particularly drops in oestrogen, lead to an array of changes throughout the body, affecting blood vessels and pressure, circulation, joint tissues, how nerves transmit signals, gut movement, sweat glands, and tear, saliva, and natural oil production.”
She added: “If you’re prone to headaches or migraines, sleep and hydration are key – but in addition, regular meals will help to keep glucose levels stable, while gentle neck and shoulder stretches can ease muscle tension, both of which can contribute to headaches.”
“Specific sensitivities which lead to tingling or burning sensations can be eased by cutting out any triggers in the products you use – try switching to fragrance-free skincare and alcohol-free dental care, as a start.”
“While specific diet changes can also help different areas – anti-inflammatory foods, like berries, leafy greens, and turmeric can help with joint pain, while gradually upping your fibre intake can ease digestive issues.”
“For eyes that feel sore, gritty, tired, or dry, including omega 3 fatty acids in your diet can also support tear quality and ease symptoms in addition to your optician’s treatment recommendations.”
Widespread Lack of Awareness
It comes after research revealed 52% of women who have been through the menopause opted to ‘carry on as usual’ at all times, even while experiencing sometimes severe discomforts. The poll of 1,000 women who are menopausal, perimenopausal, or postmenopausal, found this may be because 30% believed their symptoms weren’t worth bringing up.
More than half (54%) even felt they just had no choice but to “get on with it”, despite their discomfort interrupting things as important as being able to sleep through the night (63%) or concentrate at work (32%). It also affected their ability to feel confident in public (30%) or socialise (29%), according to the OnePoll.com data.
Other Lesser-Known Symptoms
Aggravating symptoms included those affecting both body and mind, from anxiety and sudden feelings of panic (54%) or brain fog (65%) joint stiffness (53%), digestive issues such as bloating or nausea (42%), and unpleasant skin changes (47%). More unknown effects of the menopause included burning mouth syndrome (20%) and electric shock sensations throughout the body (16%).
It’s little surprise that 64% said some of the most aggravating symptoms were the ones nobody warned them about, as 29% confirmed they were largely unprepared for those they experienced. This lack of warning may be a contributor to the negative emotions felt by many women who go through the menopause, such as feeling emotionally flat or detached (54%) and less like themselves (54%).
Dr Zoe added: “Menopause and perimenopause symptoms are often reduced to hot flushes, night sweats, and fatigue. Yet many women experience a wider range of lesser-known symptoms that can be confusing or unexpected, especially when there are no visible, physical signs.”
“Our eyes, in particular, are an area most of us wouldn’t associate with this stage of life. But while one in three people suffer with symptoms of dry eyes, in menopausal women this increases to one in two – which is huge.”
“While there are things you can do yourself to ease irritated, dry eyes, if it's consistent it's worth seeing your local high street optometrist. They will have a range of recommendations and can make sure you’re getting a personalised solution that’s right for you – such as drops, eye compresses, or their soothing ZEST eyelid cleansing procedure.”
