Getting adequate sleep is important for your overall health, but did you know that it’s also important for your vision? In fact, sleep and vision are closely connected, and sleep deprivation can have negative effects on your eyesight.
Sleep and Dry Eyes
During sleep, our bodies recharge, rejuvenate and heal. If you do not get adequate sleep, your eyes may not heal from the negative effects of eye strain, allergens, and pollutants. In fact, adequate sleep protects us from getting dry eyes and irritation as well. These symptoms include:
- Dry, scratchy eyes
- Bloodshot or red eyes
- Bags and dark circles under the eyes
- Eyelid twitches
- Blurry vision
Long term impact of sleep on vision
Chronic sleep deprivation may have long-term consequences for your vision. It increases the risk of of developing conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. In fact, sleep apnea and snoring are known risk factors for glaucoma progression. these disorders may cause irreversible vision damage, if not controlled in time. Untreated sleep apnea may also increase your risk of high blood pressure and stroke, both of which can also have a negative effect on vision.
Sleep and poor vision
If you’re having trouble sleeping or experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms please talk to your eye doctor. She can help you manage your symptoms better, and also help you in understanding the underlying cause. Sometimes we may attribute symptoms like red eyes and blurred vision to lack of sleep, when there is another underlying cause.
How much sleep do we need?
In general, seven and nine hours of sleep each night may be adequate. But there is no one fixed number that is ideal for all. If you wake up feeling tired, or feel sleepy through the day, the duration is obviously not enough.
How do I get better sleep?
If you are not getting enough sleep, consider some of the tips below for better sleep.
- Develop a sleep-wake schedule: Waking and sleeping at the same time each day helps you sleep better.
- Limit your caffeine: Limit caffeine intake to several hours before bedtime.
- Get regular exercise: Exercise helps you stay healthy, and also improves the quality of sleep. However, avoid vigorous exercise just before bedtime.
- Avoid screen time before bed: Avoid looking at screens at least an hour before bedtime.
- Contact your doctor: If you are still struggling with tired and red eyes, or blurred vision, contact your eye doctor.
