Author :
Rahul Agarwal, Priti Singh, Tanya Rajpal, Rashmi Kumar, Sapna Raghuwanshi, Vinita Ramnani
Volume :
2
Issue :
1
Abstract :
Background & Objectives: Dry eye, an ocular surface disorder occurring due to deficiency of tear film is common amongst post- menopausal women. Various previous studies have shown some form of meibomian gland dysfunction in post-menopausal women having dry eyes. Further research is needed to understand prevalence of dry eyes in this group of patients, its severity and associated risk factors.
Methods: Cross-sectional study was carried out on 300 post-menopausal women for diagnoses of dry eye based on schirmer’s test Grading of dry eye was done according to drew’s classification. Detailed history was taken from the patient on a predesigned format & relevant ocular examination was done.
Result: 96 of the 300 post-menopausal women visiting our hospital, who were included in our study, were found to have dry eyes that is 32% prevalence. Age adjusted prevalence was more for older women. Symptoms of dry eye commonly seen in these women were of dryness, crusting, redness, grittiness & burning. Of the 32 % women having dry eyes, 21% had mild, 8% moderate and 3% severe dry eyes.
Interpretation: Dry eye & its symptoms may be left unnoticed for years in post-menopausal women. Dry eye is a highly undiagnosed disorder in these women and therefore regular eye checkup of all such women should be done. Higher age group post-menopausal women are more susceptible to it.
Key words: Dry eye, Menopause, Ocular, S test, Schirmer’s test, Tear film