The Link Between Hormones and Macular Degeneration

The loss of estrogen that occurs naturally with menopause is well known for causing all kinds of health issues, including hot flashes, mood swings, and more. But less well known is the effect it could have on your vision. Experts have suggested that women who maintain their estrogen levels with hormone replacement therapy through menopause may also be increasing their protection against age-related macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss as people age. There are treatments that can help, but there is no known cure, and when the disease proceeds unchecked, it can cause severe vision loss or even blindness. Certain characteristics like age, race, or genetics and lifestyle factors like smoking or diet can increase the risk of developing macular degeneration. And as researchers uncover more information about the role lifestyle and hormones play in vision health, there is more hope for preventing and treating the disease. Read more…