Dry eye syndrome is a condition of eye dryness caused by a lack of moisture in the eyes, which often manifests in women during periods of hormonal change, such as during pregnancy or breastfeeding. During pregnancy, dry eye syndrome typically “flares up” at the end of the first trimester due to major hormonal changes.
Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can cause dry eyes.
Dry eyes during pregnancy are usually uncomfortable, but harmless. After childbirth, this condition often disappears within a few weeks once hormone levels balance out.
Symptoms of dry eyes in pregnancy
Dry eyes during pregnancy can present with many different symptoms, which can develop in both eyes. These symptoms include:
- redness;
- watery eyes (this may seem counterintuitive, but it happens as the body tries to resolve the issue);
- an itching, burning, or stinging sensation in the eyes;
- blurred vision or a gritty feeling as if there is something in your eyes;
- eyelids sticking together when you wake up;
- difficulty wearing contact lenses;
- sensitivity to light;
- poor night vision;
- tired eyes.
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Causes of dry eyes during pregnancy?
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can affect anyone. It usually occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears to stay moist and comfortable.
Tears are not just water. They are made up of water, mucus, and oils. This delicate mixture helps keep your eyes moist and clean. During pregnancy, this condition typically develops as a result of changes in your hormone levels.
Hormonal changes are essential for a healthy pregnancy, but they can cause side effects such as dry eyes. If you are pregnant and suddenly notice dry eyes, this is normal because pregnancy hormones cause your body to produce fewer tears.
Other risk factors that cause dry eyes during pregnancy:
- allergies;
- wearing contact lenses;
- dehydration;
- being in a warm house;
- spending long periods outside in the sun;
- being outside in the cold or wind;
- autoimmune diseases;
- not eating foods rich in vitamin A;
- using computer or phone screens for long periods.
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Pregnancy-safe remedies for dry eyes
The following methods help prevent dry eyes during pregnancy:
- drinking plenty of water, especially if you have morning sickness or vomiting;
- eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables;
- taking prenatal vitamins (and other supplements if recommended by your gynecologist);
- using a humidifier at home to eliminate dry air;
- keeping indoor plants to help maintain clean, humid air;
- wearing sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from the wind and sun;
- avoiding staring at screens for prolonged periods;
- using over-the-counter artificial tears.
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Treatment
Certain eye changes during pregnancy can be more serious than dry eyes. Managing dry eyes during pregnancy is carried out through medical treatments provided by an ophthalmologist, alongside several preventive measures.
Certain eye symptoms may indicate a serious condition such as preeclampsia. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your eyes, do not wait: contact your doctor or the maternity hospital, or call an ambulance straight away (especially if they come with a headache or sudden swelling):
- blurred vision;
- changes in color perception;
- dark spots in your field of vision, flashing lights, floaters, or any unusual vision changes;
- inability to focus;
- the onset of temporary or sudden vision loss.
If you have any of the following health problems, there is a risk of serious eye changes occurring during pregnancy:
Therefore, if dry eye symptoms bother you during pregnancy, be sure to see an ophthalmologist. But if your vision suddenly becomes blurred, or you see flashes or dark spots, do not wait for an eye doctor appointment: contact your obstetrician-gynecologist or the maternity hospital, or call an ambulance straight away, because this may be a sign of preeclampsia.
Based on information from www.aoa.org and www.healthline.com, this article was prepared by the “Lalu” team.
