April is Women’s Eye Health and Safety Awareness Month: Protecting and Preserving Your Vision

April is Women’s Eye Health and Safety Awareness Month, a reminder to take vision seriously. Women are more likely to develop eye conditions than men, yet many don’t prioritize regular checkups. Seeing an eye doctor in Scarborough can help prevent long-term vision problems. Protecting your eyes starts with awareness, small daily habits, and regular exams.

Why Women’s Eye Health Matters

Many don’t realize that women face a higher risk of vision problems than men. Why? Hormonal changes, pregnancy, and menopause all play a role. As estrogen and progesterone levels go up and down, they can affect tear production, eye pressure, and even the clarity of vision.

Here’s what the stats say:

• The likelihood of developing dry eye syndrome is twice as high in women as in men.
• Two-thirds of people with blindness or visual impairment are women.
• Glaucoma is more common in women, often going unnoticed until vision loss occurs.

Neglecting eye health can cause permanent harm. The bright side? Most vision problems are preventable with the right eye care approach.

Common Eye Conditions Affecting Women

1. Cataracts

A cataract clouds the eye’s lens, making vision blurry. Women develop cataracts more often, especially after menopause. Regular eye exams catch early signs before they interfere with daily life.

2. Dry Eye Syndrome

Burning, redness, and a gritty sensation? That’s dry eye. It happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. Hormonal changes, excessive screen time, and even certain medications can contribute to this frustrating condition.

3. Glaucoma

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, often without early symptoms. It’s a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Women, especially those over 40, should get regular pressure checks to prevent it.

4. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD affects central vision, making it hard to read, drive, or recognize faces. Since women live longer, they’re at greater risk. Antioxidants and a diet rich in leafy greens can slow its progression.

5. Diabetic Retinopathy

High blood sugar from diabetes can make the tiny blood vessels vulnerable in your retina, which may lead to vision problems. If you have gestational or Type 2 diabetes, regular eye checkups can help catch any issues early.

Lifestyle and Habits for Healthy Vision

Taking care of your eyes doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small changes can protect your sight for years to come.

Eat for Eye Health

Your diet doesn’t only affect your waistline—it impacts vision, too! Nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, along with omega-3 fatty acids, keep eyes healthy. Add these foods to your plate:

• Carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens
• Fatty fish like salmon and tuna
• Citrus fruits and nuts for antioxidants

Stay Hydrated

Dry eyes? Dehydration might be the culprit. Drink enough water daily to support tear production and prevent irritation.

Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays

Sunglasses aren’t just a fashion statement—they shield your eyes from harmful UV rays. Choose a pair with 100% UV protection to bring down the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

Reduce Screen Strain

Staring at a screen for hours strains the eyes. The 20-20-20 rule helps: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It keeps your eyes fresh and prevents headaches.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking alleviates the risk of cataracts and AMD. Quitting protects your vision and overall health.

Routine Eye Exams: A Must for Every Woman

Seeing an optometrist open on Saturday makes scheduling eye exams easier. Many eye conditions don’t show symptoms early, but a routine checkup can catch problems before they worsen.

Here’s when to get your eyes checked:

• Under 40: Every 2-3 years
• 40-60: Every 2 years
• Over 60: Every year

If you have diabetes, a family history of eye disease, or wear contact lenses, more frequent exams may be necessary. Don’t wait for vision problems to arise—prevention is key.

Eye Safety Tips for Women

Small habits can prevent long-term damage. Here’s how to keep your eyes safe daily:

1. Handle Contact Lenses with Care
   • Always wash your hands before touching lenses.
   • Never sleep in contact unless approved by your doctor.
   • Replace the solution regularly to avoid infections.

2. Keep Eye Makeup Clean
   • Toss mascara every three months to prevent bacteria buildup.
   • Never share eyeliner or brushes.
   • Remove eye makeup before bed to avoid irritation.

3. Protect Your Eyes at Work and Home
   • If you work on a computer, adjust screen brightness and use blue light filters.
   • When cooking, avoid touching your eyes after handling spices.
   • Use safety goggles for home improvement projects to prevent injuries.

4. Special Care During Pregnancy and Menopause
   • Pregnancy can cause temporary vision changes due to fluid retention.
   • Hormonal shifts during menopause may trigger dry eye symptoms.
   • Stay hydrated, use artificial tears if needed, and visit your doctor for any changes.

Final Thoughts

Your vision impacts every part of life, from reading to driving to enjoying time with family. Women face unique risks, but with the right steps, protecting eye health is easy. Schedule an exam at Dr. Allyson Tang Optometrist – Scarborough, wear UV-blocking sunglasses, and build healthy habits now. Spread the word—April is the perfect time to prioritize your eyes!