Could Menopause Put You at Risk for Macular Degeneration?

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45-55, and when it occurs at a younger age, it is usually associated with increased health risks. For instance, women who experience menopause at an earlier age may also develop macular degeneration earlier as well, which can lead to increased problems with vision over time. Macular degeneration is an often-debilitating eye disease that can cause severe vision loss and even blindness. The risk of macular degeneration increases as people age, and the relationship between early menopause and macular degeneration has led some experts to explore the link between the drop in hormones that comes with age and macular degeneration. One study found that DHEA levels (a precursor to male and female sex hormones) are significantly lower in people with macular degeneration. While more studies are needed to examine the link, some evidence suggests that bioidentical hormone replacement could possibly be used to help treat or prevent macular degeneration. Read more…