Of the 4.1 million Americans age 40 and older who are visually impaired or blind, 2.6 million are women.
Why are rates of eye disease higher among women? Eye doctors Palm Desert say the primary reason women have higher rates of eye disease is longevity; simply living longer increases one’s risk of eye disease. Eye doctors Palm Desert say women also experience hormonal fluctuations in their lifetime that can be detrimental to their vision. Two-thirds of blindness and other visual impairments occur in women. Other factors uniquely impacting women include:
Birth Control/HRT:
Hormonal treatments have been reported to increase the chances of cataracts and dry eye without visiting Palm Desert eye care, as well as risk of stroke.
Pregnancy:
Among numerous changes, eye doctors Palm Desert say pregnancy increases the occurrence of dry eye, puffiness, and light sensitivity.
Menopause:
Hormonal changes brought on by menopause can ultimately lead to dry eye and other issues unless visiting a Palm Desert eye care professional at Acuity Optical.
Breast Cancer:
While not a direct result of breast cancer, drugs taken during treatment can increase your risk of cataracts, eye bleeds, itchy eyes, and light sensitivity. It’s important to visit a trusted Palm Desert eye care provider such as Acuity Optical.
For all individuals, an annual eye exam from eye doctors Palm Desert is the best way to protect your sight. Pregnant women should see their Palm Desert eye care professional regularly and discuss any changes in their vision.