Hormones: How Can They Affect Your Vision and Eye Health?

Hormones affect an individual’s growth, development, metabolism, mood, cognitive function and reproductive health. These chemicals are also referred to as the body’s messengers since they command cells. You will experience hormonal changes throughout your lifetime, which can impact several body parts, including your eyes.  

Your local optometrist explains how hormones affect vision and eye health. 

Female Hormones

Women experience changes in their vision due to estrogen and progesterone. Levels of these hormones can fluctuate due to pregnancy or birth control. These hormonal changes can affect glands in the eyes, potentially resulting in dryness and irritation. Estrogen can affect the elasticity of the cornea, which can alter how light passes through the eye. 

Pregnancy causes an increase in estrogen and progesterone, which can result in blurred vision. Fortunately, pregnancy-related vision changes are reversible and improve a couple of weeks after giving birth. Moreover, female hormones can significantly decrease with menopause. It isn’t uncommon for women at this stage of their lives to find it hard to read small print or see things up close. 

Male Hormones

Male hormones, such as testosterone, can affect eye health. For instance, individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) usually have high androgen levels, making them more susceptible to dry eye syndrome. Also, men between 40 and 60 may experience vision changes because of lower testosterone levels. Regardless of your gender, you must see your eye doctor immediately if you notice something different with your sight. 

Thyroid Hormones

Your thyroid produces hormones that regulate your metabolism. If this gland doesn’t make sufficient hormones, your eyes and vision could suffer. Hormonal changes can occur due to an autoimmune disorder like Grave’s disease. Patients with this condition usually don’t blink enough and find it difficult to close their lids. 

Scheduling routine comprehensive eye exams is essential to maintaining good eye health and preserving vision. Let Vienna Eyecare Center handle your family’s eye care needs. We offer eyeglasses, contact lenses and treatment for different eye conditions. Call us at (703) 938-7633 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment. We assist patients in Vienna, Reston and McLean, VA, and nearby areas.