April is Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month, shining a spotlight on women’s overall well-being. Often the ones managing their family’s healthcare, women sometimes overlook their own needs. According to the National Eye Institute, two out of every three people living with blindness or vision problems are women. This important initiative aims to increase awareness about eye diseases and conditions that disproportionately affect women.

Research indicates that women are more prone to certain eye issues, especially as they age and undergo hormonal changes. For example, dry eye syndrome, a condition where the eyes lack sufficient lubrication, becomes more common after menopause. Hormonal imbalances during menopause can affect the glands of the eyes and eyelids, exacerbating dry eye symptoms.

While dry eye affects both genders, women are disproportionately affected, particularly during menopausal and post-menopausal stages. It’s an often undetected aspect of aging that impacts millions of Americans each year, affecting not only quality of life but also physical health.

To maintain optimal eye health, here are some tips tailored for women:

• Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Many eye conditions don’t show early symptoms, so establishing a baseline eye exam by age 40 is recommended. Early detection through comprehensive eye exams can prevent vision loss.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of conditions like diabetes, which can lead to eye diseases.
• Stay Active: Regular exercise not only benefits overall health but also helps protect vision. If you’re not active, consider discussing lifestyle changes with your doctor.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking isn’t just harmful to your lungs; it also increases the risk of eye diseases like glaucoma and cataracts.
• Wear UV-Protective Sunglasses: UV exposure contributes to age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Invest in sunglasses that provide full UV protection, even on cloudy days.
• Use Proper Eye Protection: Whether at work, home, or play, wear appropriate eye protection like safety glasses, goggles, or face shields to prevent accidents.

By taking proactive steps to care for your eyes, you can safeguard your vision for years to come. To learn more about eye health, including dry eye management, reach out to Bissell Eye Care at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444. Your eyes deserve the same attention you give to the rest of your health!

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.