Fact or Fiction? Disputing Myths About Women’s Eye Health

April is Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month, a time to bring awareness to all the issues that can affect women’s vision. At Better Vision New Jersey, we’re dedicated to providing our patients with the knowledge to recognize and prevent vision conditions. Read on for important facts about women’s eye health, what unique factors affect women’s aging eyes, and what steps you can take to promote healthy vision.

Women’s Eye Health—True or False

Although it’s important for everyone to know the right information about their eye health, there are certain facts that pertain specifically to women. We’ll share some of these facts below through true or false questions!

Women Are More Susceptible to Vision Loss Than Men

True

According to the National Eye Institute, women are at a greater risk of blindness and vision loss. Women typically have a longer lifespan than men, meaning that they are more likely to develop age-related conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Although age-related conditions affect everyone, women should be extra diligent about looking for signs of any issues, such as blurry or double vision, redness and irritation, and sensitivity to light.

Hormones Don’t Play a Role In Women’s Vision Loss

False

Hormone fluctuations play a major role in vision loss and related issues in women, and can commonly occur during pregnancy and menopause. During pregnancy, fluid retention can cause women to retain more water in their eyes, specifically the corneas, which can lead to blurry vision.

Alternatively, hormonal changes during pregnancy can also cause dry eyes, reduced tear production, and even increased pressure behind the eyes, leading to headaches. These symptoms don’t affect the baby and typically fade a few weeks after delivery. Dry eye syndrome is also common in both peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women. Luckily, there are many treatments available for dry eyes, including artificial tears and in-office procedures at Better Vision New Jersey.

Women Are at a Higher Risk of Developing Vision Conditions

True

Not only are women more likely to experience vision loss due to living longer, but they are also more likely to develop rarer eye conditions that affect their vision. According to the National Eye Institute, about two-thirds of all people who are affected by blindness are women, and it’s estimated that about 27 million women over the age of 40 are visually impaired. Eye conditions don’t just affect older women and can develop in women of all ages, but are treatable, and in some cases preventable, with the help of an eye doctor.

Autoimmune Diseases Don’t Affect the Eyes

False

Autoimmune diseases can affect the eyes and healthy vision. The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that women are more susceptible to autoimmune diseases than men. Many autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of eye conditions and vision issues. Women are also more likely to go through cancer treatments that can lead to vision problems and affect eye health, causing symptoms like redness, irritation, dry eyes, and blurry vision.

Tips to Promote Eye Health

Although these facts may be intimidating, there are numerous ways to help prevent vision conditions from developing and slow the progression of age-related eye issues.

Here are some tips for healthy aging eyes:

• Eat nutritional and vitamin-rich foods
• Don’t smoke
• Wear proper UV protection
• Wear goggles when participating in sports or swimming
• Attend annual comprehensive eye exams

Preventive Care is for Everyone

Attending regular eye exams isn’t exclusive to people at higher risk of vision loss and eye discomfort. Scheduling regular exams is one of the best examples of preventive care for everyone. Even if you’re not noticing specific symptoms of vision issues, having a professional assess your eyes can reveal signs you may be unaware of.

Contact Better Vision New Jersey Today!

At Better Vision New Jersey, our mission is to help our patients maintain clear and comfortable vision, regardless of age or gender. Eye exams are crucial for detecting vision loss symptoms, identifying signs of age-related conditions, and finding the best treatment to address any issues that arise.

Call Better Vision New Jersey at (908)-276-3030 with any questions or to schedule your next appointment today!