Menopause can indeed cause eyesight to get blurry at night, and this is linked primarily to the hormonal changes women experience during this phase of life. The drop in estrogen and other hormones during menopause affects various parts of the eye and its function, leading to symptoms such as blurry vision, especially in low-light conditions.
One of the main reasons for blurry vision at night during menopause is **dry eye syndrome**. Estrogen helps maintain the quality and quantity of tears that lubricate the eyes. When estrogen levels fall, tear production decreases, and the tear film that coats the eye becomes less stable. This causes the eyes to feel dry, gritty, or irritated, which can blur vision and make it harder to see clearly, particularly in dim lighting or at night when the eyes are more sensitive to dryness.
Additionally, hormonal fluctuations can subtly change the shape of the cornea—the clear, front part of the eye responsible for focusing light. Even minor changes in corneal curvature can disrupt how light is focused on the retina, leading to temporary blurriness. This effect can be more noticeable at night because the pupil dilates in low light, making any imperfections in focusing more apparent.
Menopause can also increase **sensitivity to light**, which may worsen difficulties with night vision. This heightened light sensitivity can cause discomfort and glare, making it challenging to see clearly when driving or moving around in the dark.
Eye fatigue is another common issue during menopause. The combination of dry eyes and changes in focusing ability means the eyes tire more quickly, especially after prolonged screen use or reading. This fatigue can contribute to blurry vision and difficulty adjusting to different lighting conditions.
Beyond these immediate symptoms, menopause may increase the risk of developing certain eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma, which can also affect vision quality. While these conditions are more related to aging, the hormonal changes during menopause may accelerate their onset or progression.
Other factors related to menopause can indirectly affect eyesight at night. For example, fluctuating blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance, which some women experience during menopause, can cause temporary changes in vision, including blurriness. Diet and lifestyle factors that influence inflammation and overall health may also play a role in how menopause affects the eyes.
In summary, blurry vision at night during menopause is primarily caused by hormonal changes that reduce tear production and alter the shape of the cornea, leading to dry eyes and focusing difficulties. Increased light sensitivity and eye fatigue further contribute to this problem. Women experiencing these symptoms may find their usual glasses or contact lenses less effective and might need updated prescriptions or treatments to manage dry eyes and improve comfort and clarity of vision.
