How Sleep Apnea Affects The Eyes

Did you know that some eye conditions are associated with sleep apnea? According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 18 million Americans have sleep apnea, a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where airway muscles relax and partially block breathing during sleep. It is twice as common in men and more likely in people with obesity, hypertension, or diabetes.

Eye Conditions Associated with Sleep Apnea

Glaucoma

Sleep apnea may cause drops in blood oxygen levels that contribute to glaucoma. Even CPAP machines used to treat sleep apnea have been associated with increased glaucoma risk. Regular eye exams are essential for anyone with sleep apnea.

Floppy Eyelid Syndrome

Floppy Eyelid Syndrome (FES) causes an unusually large and floppy upper eyelid. Over 90% of people with FES also have sleep apnea. Symptoms include eye redness, irritation, discharge, and blurry vision.

Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

NAION occurs when blood flow to the optic nerve is lost, causing significant vision loss in one eye. Approximately 70–80% of NAION patients have been found to have OSA.

Retinal Vein Occlusion

Also called an ‘eye stroke,’ retinal vein occlusion is a blockage of the veins carrying blood from the retina. Research has linked sleep apnea to a significant percentage of RVO cases.

Talk to Your Eye Doctor

Get regular eye exams to rule out eye disorders and prevent potential vision loss, especially if you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. At Miamisburg Vision Care in Miamisburg we encourage you to share your full medical history so we can provide you with the best possible care.