Understanding Macular Disease: What You Need to Know About Central Vision Loss
Sleep apnoea is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, it can lead to various health complications, including those involving the eyes. While most people associate sleep apnoea with fatigue, snoring, and other symptoms related to the respiratory system, its effects on the eyes are just as significant. Here’s a look at how sleep apnoea can impact your eye health and increase the risk of some eye diseases.
Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder where a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax excessively, obstructing the airway. There is also central sleep apnoea, a less common form where the brain fails to signal the muscles responsible for controlling breathing.
The interruptions in breathing lead to reduced oxygen levels in the blood, which can trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response, causing the heart rate and blood pressure to rise. This disturbance in the body’s natural rhythm can have far-reaching consequences on overall health, including the eyes.
Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, often due to elevated pressure in the eye. People with sleep apnoea are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma. While the association is established, the exact mechanisms behind how sleep apnoea contributes to glaucoma are still being researched, however the frequent drops in oxygen levels during sleep are thought to reduce blood flow to the optic nerve, causing damage over time. This can lead to vision impairment and even permanent blindness if left untreated.
People with sleep apnoea, especially those who use a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, may experience dry eyes. The air from the CPAP mask can cause moisture to evaporate from the surface of the eyes, leading to irritation, discomfort, and sometimes blurred vision. Dry eyes are not only uncomfortable, but they can also increase the risk of eye infections and corneal damage if not addressed.
Research has also suggested a possible connection between sleep apnoea and conditions affecting the retina, such as diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion. The fluctuations in blood oxygen levels and the strain on the cardiovascular system can cause changes in blood flow, which may adversely affect the delicate blood vessels in the eyes. This could lead to long-term damage to the retina and a risk of vision loss if not properly managed.
While the connection between sleep apnoea and eye health is still being studied, the evidence is compelling enough to emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnoea—such as loud snoring, choking, gasping for air during sleep, or excessive daytime fatigue—it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Treating sleep apnoea early on can prevent a variety of health complications, including those related to your eyes.
Sleep apnoea is more than just a breathing issue; it can have far-reaching effects on your overall health, including your vision. From dry eyes and irritation to increased risks for serious conditions like glaucoma, the eyes can bear a significant burden from the disturbances caused by this disorder. If you have sleep apnoea, make sure to have regular eye exams to monitor for any changes in your eye health, particularly for glaucoma or other retinal conditions.
Always consult with your healthcare provider if you’re concerned about sleep apnoea or its effects on your eyes. Contact us to make an appointment with an eye specialist at Nexus Eyecare to monitor and address any potential issues. Early intervention can make a world of difference in preserving both your sleep and your sight.
Copyright © 2023 Nexus Eye Care | Trans4m Business Consulting – Website Design & SEO | Privacy Policy | ^
