Why Women Over 40 Are More Prone to Dry Eye - and What You Can Do About It

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition, but women over 40 are especially likely to experience it. This isn’t just a matter of chance - hormonal changes, lifestyle factors, and age-related shifts in eye health all play a role. Understanding why this happens and what you can do about it can make a big difference in protecting your vision and comfort.

Why Dry Eye Is More Common in Women Over 40

• Hormonal changes: Estrogen and progesterone fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause can reduce tear production and change the composition of tears. Lower androgen levels can also affect the oil glands in the eyelids, leading to faster tear evaporation.

• Increased risk of autoimmune conditions: Women are more likely than men to develop autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus - all of which can contribute to chronic dry eye.

• Lifestyle and screen time: Spending long hours on digital devices reduces blink frequency, which can worsen dry eye symptoms. Contact lens wear and makeup use around the eyes can also contribute to dryness and irritation.

• Age-related eye changes: After age 40, the glands that produce tears and oils naturally slow down. Combined with hormonal changes, this makes women especially vulnerable to persistent dry eye.

What You Can Do to Manage Dry Eye

• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps maintain a healthy tear film.

• Use artificial tears: Lubricating drops can temporarily relieve dryness and irritation.

• Add omega-3s to your diet: Foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds support healthy tear production.

• Protect your eyes from the environment: Sunglasses, humidifiers, and avoiding direct airflow from fans or AC can reduce irritation.

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes of screen use, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to rest your eyes.

When to See Your Optometrist

If dry eye symptoms persist despite home remedies, it’s time to schedule an appointment. At Pflugerville Vision Care, we offer advanced dry eye treatments that go beyond over-the-counter relief. Your optometrist may recommend:

• Prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation and improve tear quality

• Punctal plugs to help conserve natural tears

• In-office therapies such as iLux®, intense pulsed light (IPL), and low-level light therapy (LLLT) to restore proper function of the oil glands in your eyelids

• Lifestyle and treatment plans tailored to your unique needs

Schedule Your Dry Eye Consultation Today

While dry eye is especially common for women over 40, you don’t have to live with constant discomfort. Simple lifestyle changes combined with professional care can bring lasting relief. If at-home strategies aren’t enough, professional evaluation ensures you get the right treatment to protect your vision and maintain eye comfort.

Schedule a consultation with Pflugerville Vision Care to discover advanced treatments that target the root cause of your dry eye and restore comfort to your vision. Visit our office in Pflugerville, Texas, or call (512) 251-4099 to book an appointment today.