by Sally Cross, Natural Change. Menopause is signalled when menstruation has stopped for a year or more. During menopause, the body produces less oestrogen, progesterone and androgen, causing a variety of uncomfortable symptoms such as sweating, insomnia, and hot flashes. One symptom is dry eye. This is an uncomfortable condition that affects eye health, the olfactory surface of the eye and tear production. Around 61% of peri-menopausal and menopausal women are affected by dry eye syndrome. Among these physical symptoms is dry eyes, characterized by dry, itchy and burning eyes. Hormones influence the main mechanisms that keep the ocular surface of the eye stable, they have involvement with: Producing tears Evaporating tears Draining tears Maintaining corneal epithelial cells Maintaining the nerves behind the cornea Maintaining the immune system of the eye Other factors which may increase a person’s chances of developing dry eye are the use of anti-histamines, surgery, age, medical conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome, thyroid disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease Symptoms Discomfort Blurry vision Pain Burning Itchiness Redness Tired eyes Dry eyes Light sensitivity Gritty feeling Treatment options Artificial tears Lubricating eye drops Eyelid hygiene Oral antibiotics Corticosteroid eye drops Medications that reduce eyelid inflammation Punctal plugs - to reduce tear flow away from the eyes Herbal remedies Dietary changes Alternative treatments, home remedies and preventive measures: Use a warm and moist compress Take herbal supplements, such as St. John’s wort Take Vitamin D, Vitamin A Increase consumption of omega 3 fatty acids Try acupuncture Wear wrap-round sunglasses when outside to protect the eyes from sun and wind. I use wrap round photochromic cycling glasses. Avoid sitting in front of a fan or open window Reduce screen time, take frequent breaks, use blue light blocking glasses and consciously blink frequently. I use blue-light blocking glasses when working at the computer or watching TV- clear during day, amber in evening. Avoid irritants like dust, pollen and smoke which can make your symptoms more severe. Try a humidifier. Keeping the air around you moist may help. Stay well hydrated Get plenty of sleep Get checked out by your doctor as further complications can arise with dry eye: Eye infection Scratches on the cornea Difficulty seeing Ulcers on the eyelid Scarring on the eye These complications may lead to vision loss. Medicinal Herbs for dry eye Turmeric is an asian spice that is protective against a number of diseases and inflammation, including dry eye. Paprika has a high concentration of vitamin A, which is beneficial with dry eye symptoms. Bilberry is beneficial for dry, itchy eyes. Extracts from the bilberry fruit help to improve blood circulation, oxygen supply and tear gland function. Additionally, bilberries contain vitamin P and citrin, both of which help to decrease swelling and inflammation in the body; a common dry eye trigger. Mint eyewash: Boil about 10-12 leaves of mint in some water. Wait until the solution cools and then using a clean face cloth apply the wash to your eyes. Menthol, the active ingredient in mint, actually stimulates tear production. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties. Make as a tea infusion and use as a compress, it soothes tired eyes and can help restore moisture. Please be aware that some medicinal & culinary herbs can be contra-indicated in pregnancy, breast feeding, present medical conditions and current medications. It is advisable to seek advice from your Primary Healthcare Provider and a qualified Herbalist, before taking any herbal remedies. My advice is general, not intended for any one particular individual, so in taking these herbs, you do so at your own risk. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. https://www.facebook.com/naturalchangewithsallycross https://www.naturalchangewithsallycross.com
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