Ballymena optometrists launch new dry eye service to support women’s eye health on World Menopause Day

Fitzsimons Opticians’ senior optometrist and director, John Broderick, undertaking an eye examination

A Ballymena optometry practice is marking World Menopause Day with the launch of a new dry eye service aimed at improving women’s eye health during menopause and perimenopause.

Fitzsimons Opticians, based on William Street, has invested in state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to help identify and treat dry eye syndrome — a condition that experts say can affect more than half of menopausal women.

The practice’s new service enables patients to receive specialist in-practice treatments every few months, reducing the need for time-consuming daily home care routines.

Eye health experts say the initiative comes at an important time, as World Menopause Day on Saturday, October 18 — part of Menopause Awareness Month — offers an opportunity to highlight how hormonal changes can directly affect eye comfort and vision.

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly the decline in oestrogen, can impact the production of the tear film, a delicate layer of water, oil, and mucous that lubricates and protects the eyes.

When this process is disrupted, women may experience symptoms such as itchy, gritty, or burning eyes, redness, sensitivity to light, or even blurred vision.

‘A significant impact on quality of life’

Fitzsimons Opticians, located on William Street, Ballymena

Fitzsimons Opticians’ senior optometrist and director, John Broderick, said the practice’s new approach allows for more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

He explained:

“Through our new dry eye service, we use an infrared camera to assess the eyelid glands beneath the surface of the skin, something that can’t be done any other way. We also use specialist microscopes to determine the nature of the dry eyes, as there can be multiple different causes.”

The practice, which celebrated its 40th anniversary this summer, is now providing new treatment options to reduce eyelid inflammation, unblock meibomian glands, and remove the build-up of scales along the lashes. These procedures are designed to restore the eyes’ natural tear balance and ease discomfort for patients.

John continued:

“Dry eye is very common and for some people, dry eye can have a significant impact on their quality of life, so we urge anyone who is experiencing symptoms to book an appointment. It only takes about 40 minutes, but it could put a stop to living with uncomfortable eyes.”

He added:

“World Menopause Day is the perfect time to raise awareness of how the menopause or perimenopause may affect women’s eyes, so any changes are not simply put down to ageing.”

Hormonal fluctuations linked to menopause can also increase the risk of glaucoma and cataracts, making regular eye examinations essential for early detection and prevention.

For more information on Fitzsimons Opticians’ new dry eye service or to book an appointment, visit www.fitzsimonsopticians.com/eyecare/dry-eye or call 028 2564 0582.