PREVENTION OF DRY EYE SYNDROME IN WOMEN OF CLIMACTERIC AGE

Аннотация

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a multifactorial ocular surface disorder that becomes increasingly prevalent among women during the climacteric period due to complex hormonal changes. Estrogen and androgen deficiencies associated with menopause affect the lacrimal and meibomian glands, leading to decreased tear production and instability of the tear film. As a result, affected women often experience symptoms such as ocular dryness, irritation, burning sensation, and visual fatigue, which can significantly impact daily activities and quality oflife. This study aims to investigate the primary causes and pathophysiological mechanisms of DES in climacteric women and to assess the effectiveness of various preventive strategies, including the use of artificial tears, nutritional supplements (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids), and hormonereplacement therapy (HRT). A total of 120 women aged 45 to 60 years were examined and divided into premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal subgroups. Clinical tests, hormonal assessments, and patient-reported symptom questionnaires were used to evaluate tear function and ocular surfacehealth. The findings highlight a strong correlation between estrogen decline and the severity of DES symptoms. Preventive interventions demonstrated varying degrees of success, with the greatest improvementobserved inpatients who received early, individualized treatment. The results of this study emphasize the need for increased awareness, timely screening, and comprehensive management of dry eye syndrome in menopausal women, which can ultimately reducetheburden of diseaseand improvetheirvisual comfort andquality oflife. Keywords:Dry eye syndrome, menopause, prevention, hormone deficiency, ocular health