For Women's Health Week, RSB urges women to make eye health a top priority

 

According to The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s Eye Health web report, females experience a higher prevalence of chronic eye conditions than males.

 

Statistically, women have a longer life expectancy than men, which means there is a greater chance that women will develop age-related eye problems.

 

Three main sight-threatening conditions affect women more than men: cataracts, dry eye, and presbyopia.

 

Cataracts occur when your eye becomes cloudy, causing reduced vision. The cataract can make it harder to do daily activities such as driving, reading, and even seeing an expression on a person’s face. Fortunately, surgery is available and is generally a safe procedure. However, to detect this early on, women should regularly visit their optometrist.

 

Dry eye is a common condition when your tears cannot provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. Almost everyone can experience dry eye; however, women have much higher rates than men. Pregnancy, using birth control pills, or going through menopause can limit the number of tears in women. Luckily, there are treatments to help reduce the symptoms of dry eyes.

 

Presbyopia is the inability to focus on near objects. Presbyopia is Australia’s fourth most common eye disease and affects around 687,200 Australians. The condition impacts both men and women, but the diagnosis rates occur earlier for women.

 

Other predominantly behavioural/hormonal factors that contribute to high rates of eye-related issues amongst women in Australia are pregnancy, menopause, and cosmetics.

 

Expecting mothers may experience several changes to their bodies, including their vision which can become slightly impaired. Luckily, these issues are temporary and will return to normal soon after giving birth. However, if your vision does not resolve, we recommend seeing your doctor and optometrist.

 

Changes in progestogen and estrogen levels during menopause can increase the risk of developing dry eyes, cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.

 

Poor makeup hygiene can lead to dry eye and conjunctivitis. About 40 percent of Australians clean their makeup tools less than twice a year, concerningly putting their eyes in close contact with infectious bacteria. Maintaining hygiene practices when it comes to beauty regimes is essential to avoid any eye problems.

 

What can women do to prevent developing eye-related issues?

 

We recommend visiting your optometrist regularly, as they will be able to detect diseases and health disorders that involve your eyes. On top of regular visits, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to good vision throughout your lifetime. Staying away from processed foods and alcohol can help to reduce your risk!

 

RSB has been alongside South Australians experiencing vision loss for the last 138 years. We’re here to support you if your sight is deteriorating if you have a diagnosed sight disorder, or when you need more specialist services than a standard optometrist can provide.

Get in contact with us today! << 1300 944 306

 

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