By Dr. Rani Banik

As a neuro-ophthalmologist practicing in New York City, I’ve treated thousands of women who are struggling with vision concerns, often without realizing their symptoms are part of a larger pattern. From gritty, tired eyes to blurred vision or even permanent loss, many of the most common eye conditions disproportionately affect women.

Dry eye, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and glaucoma are all more prevalent in women due to hormonal shifts, autoimmune conditions, and longer life expectancy. Yet these conditions often go underdiagnosed and undertreated, especially with natural approaches that address the root causes.

Dry eye can present as burning, tearing, redness or sensitivity to light. Women, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, are twice as likely to suffer from dry eye. Natural management includes anti-inflammatory nutrients such as omega-3s from diet and/or supplementation, berry extracts, and adequate hydration. Additional management approaches include daily eyelid hygiene with tea tree oil-based cleansers and hypochlorous acid spray to restore the ocular surface microbiome, as well as personalized therapies like compounded topical hormonal creams that support the meibomian glands, essential for a healthy tear film to lubricate the eyes.

AMD, the top cause of central vision loss in older adults, affects women at nearly double the rate of men. Preventive strategies include macular-protective carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, found in leafy greens and egg yolks, as well as astaxanthin and other antioxidants such as Vitamins C and E, copper and zinc. A Mediterranean-style, plant-forward diet rich in antioxidants is especially protective and can reduce the risk by 47 percent.

Glaucoma, the “silent thief of sight,” can cause irreversible damage without warning. Women over 60 are at higher risk. Natural strategies for optic nerve health include berry extracts, vitamin B3 (nicotinamide), regular aerobic exercise, and stress-reduction techniques like yoga and mindfulness.

To empower yourself with knowledge and natural strategies for women’s eye health, join Rani Banik, MD – America’s Integrative Ophthalmologist, along with 35 other eye care experts, at The Eye Health Summit, a free virtual event happening May 1 to 7, 2025. Discover the latest integrative strategies to protect your vision for life. Register now at TheEyeHealthSummit.com and invite a friend.