Have you ever noticed that dry eye seems to affect more women than men? Well, you’re not imagining things. Women not only have a higher risk of dry eyes than men, but they are also more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age and experience more severe symptoms. So, why is this the case? There are several reasons why women are more susceptible to dry eyes:
Hormonal changes
One of the main reasons why women are more prone to dry eye syndrome is hormonal changes. Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining the quality and quantity of tears produced by our eyes. As women go through various stages of life such as pregnancy, menopause, or even just their monthly cycle, fluctuations in estrogen levels can lead to changes in tear production. This can result in dry, irritated eyes that feel like they need constant rehydration.
Cosmetic use
Many women love to wear makeup, from eyeliner and mascara to eyeshadow and concealer. While these products can enhance our natural beauty, they can also contribute to dry eye. Regular use of makeup, especially around the eyes, can block oil glands that help prevent tear evaporation. The chemicals in makeup can irritate the eyes and disrupt the delicate balance of tear production.
Autoimmune conditions
Did you know that women are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases than men? Conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus can all impact tear production and quality, leading to dry eye symptoms. These diseases cause the immune system to attack the body’s tissues, including those responsible for producing tears.
Longer lifespan
Women also tend to live longer than men, and age is a common risk factor for developing dry eye. As we get older, our bodies produce fewer tears and our tear film may become less stable, leading to dryness and discomfort.
How to find relief from dry eye
If you’re struggling with dry eye, here are some tips that may help you find relief:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your body—and your eyes—hydrated.
- Use humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can ease dry eye symptoms.
- Blink regularly: Remind yourself to blink, especially when using digital screens, to keep your eyes moist.
- Use over-the-counter eye drops: Artificial tears can supplement your natural tear production and provide relief.
- Apply warm compresses: Warm compresses can help you produce more tears by unclogging the tear glands in your eyelids. They can also help ease inflammation and relieve discomfort.
Advanced treatment for dry eyes
If you’re experiencing persistent dry eye symptoms such as stinging, burning, redness, or blurry vision, it’s important to seek treatment from your eye care provider. At Newport Eye Care, our dry eye specialists in Waterville and Newport offer TearCare treatment—an innovative solution for addressing chronic dry eye symptoms. This advanced technology targets blocked oil glands along the eyelids and helps improve tear film quality by restoring proper oil flow. With TearCare treatment, many patients experience significant relief from their dry eye symptoms and enjoy clearer vision and greater comfort.
In conclusion, understanding why dry eye affects women more than men is key to finding the right solutions. At Newport Eye Care, we’re committed to providing friendly, personalized care to help you manage and even prevent dry eye symptoms. If dry eye is bothering you, reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.
