When most people think about sleep apnea, they picture loud snoring or feeling groggy in the morning. However, the effects of sleep apnea go far beyond just disrupted sleep. Recent research shows that sleep apnea can also have a significant impact on your eye health, increasing the risk of serious conditions like glaucoma.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much, temporarily blocking the airway. This results in reduced oxygen levels throughout the night, affecting your body’s organs.

How Sleep Apnea Impacts Eye Health

Chronic oxygen deprivation caused by sleep apnea doesn’t just leave you feeling tired; it can also contribute to a variety of eye conditions. One of the most concerning links is between sleep apnea and glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible vision loss.

Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss if not managed properly. Studies have found that people with sleep apnea are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, possibly due to poor blood flow and fluctuating oxygen levels affecting the optic nerve. Over time, these changes can increase pressure inside the eye and impair the nerve’s ability to function.

Why Is Early Detection Important?

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it typically causes no symptoms until permanent vision loss has already occurred. For those with sleep apnea, regular eye exams are even more crucial, as they are at greater risk for developing glaucoma and other serious eye conditions.

Protecting Your Eyes If You Have Sleep Apnea

If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, here are a few steps you can take to protect your eye health:
 

• Schedule routine eye exams: Early detection is key to managing glaucoma and other eye conditions.

• Follow your sleep apnea treatment plan: Whether you use CPAP therapy, oral appliances, or another treatment, sticking to your prescribed plan can improve overall health - including your eyes.

• Inform your eye doctor: Always let your optometrist know about your sleep apnea diagnosis so they can monitor for related eye issues.

Concerned About Your Risk?

The link between sleep apnea and eye conditions like glaucoma underscores the importance of comprehensive healthcare. By addressing sleep apnea and maintaining regular eye exams, you can take proactive steps to protect your vision.

If you have sleep apnea or are concerned about your risk for glaucoma, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Clarity Vision to protect your vision. Visit our office in Clayton, North Carolina, or call (919) 550-4801 to book an appointment today.