Dry Eye and Pregnancy

Dry eye can be a big problem for many pregnant women. A recent study published in the November 2011 issue of Molecular Vision, a peer-reviewed academic journal, found that pregnant rabbits often exhibit typical clinical symptoms of dry eye. Changes in your eye condition can be the result of any number of things, from hormone fluctuation to alteration in blood circulations. Water retention, for example, can cause the thickness and curvature of your cornea to change. As a result, your contact lenses may no longer fit as well as before. Existing dry eye conditions may take a turn for the worse as the oil glands that produce lipids to lubricate the eyes become blocked. People who have never experienced dry eye before may now find themselves needing extra help as well. The end of pregnancy may not bring relief either as hormonal changes will often take several months to disappear.

So how can you find dry eye relief during pregnancy? Eye drops may be a solution. Many over the counter formulas contain no active ingredients and are therefore safe to use. Prescription only eye drops, however, should be used with caution. While most of the medications in eye drops stay in or near the eye, small amounts can be absorbed into the body’s bloodstream through the mucous membranes lining the surface of the eye, the tear drainage system, and the nose. You should consult your doctor before using any of your regular prescription eye medicines during pregnancy. Outside of eye drops, there are some home remedies that can help to relieve the symptoms of dry eye during pregnancy. A hot compress can open up blocked oil glands and provide temporary relief. Wearing eyeglasses instead of contacts and taking regular breaks while using the computer are some other easy steps that will improve your eye condition. Talk with your doctor about any measure you are planning to take and happy eye health!