Sjögren’s Syndrome and Menopause
While unusual, your dry eyes may be caused by an autoimmune disorder [11]. This disorder is known as Sjögren’s syndrome. It causes leukocytes from your immune system to attack your tear glands. This often results in decreased tear production.
Most people who have this syndrome lubricate their eyes with artificial tears. Some people opt for steroid eye drops or surgery. If you get surgery, your surgeon will insert silicone plugs into your tear ducts to collect tears.
Hormonal changes [12] during menopause may cause you to have dry eyes. Hormones help trigger the production of tears. When fluctuations happen during menopause, this activity may become impaired.
Some people also experience dry eyes during pregnancy or while on birth control pills. These also affect hormonal balance.