A lack of sleep can negatively affect your health in the short and long term, especially when this happens regularly. Without enough sleep, your body’s immune system will be compromised. Other effects of sleep deficiency include weight gain, memory problems, mood changes, and high blood pressure. However, did you know that a lack of sleep also affects your eyes? Cosmetically, a lack of sleep can cause those dark circles or bags under the eyes. Below are some eye conditions that may develop if you don’t get enough sleep a night:
Dry Eyes
Sleepy eyes are usually dry eyes. It is important to ensure your eyes get a constant supply of tears to function optimally. This is the reason you need to blink. A lack of sleep prevents your eyes from getting the fluid circulation it needs. This fluid cleans and renews the eyes. If you stay awake for an unusual number of hours, this function is compromised.
Eye Spasms
Eye spasms are also called myokymia or an involuntary twitching of the eyelid muscles around one eye. This happens because of a misfiring of neurons that supply the eyelid muscles. Myokymia is often caused by a lack of sleep, stress, anxiety, and fatigue. The majority of cases often resolve within three weeks. However, if eyelid twitching happens frequently, it can help to get enough rest and reduce caffeine intake.
Floppy Eyelid Syndrome (Fes)
Routine eye examinations can detect this condition. This condition is characterized by the eyelids being rubber-like which stay puckered when pulled. Some of the symptoms of FES include eye dryness, irritation, discharge, redness, and eyelid swelling. If you suspect you have this condition, consider getting an eye exam near me.
Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (AION)
This eye condition is associated with people with sleep apnea. It is characterized by the inflammation of the eye vessels that could lead to vision loss over time.
Although your lack of sleep is not frequent enough to increase your chance of developing certain eye conditions, you need to address your situation. Some of the approaches that can help you avoid getting puffy, dry eyes after nights of tossing and turning include napping, staying active during the day, reducing caffeine consumption, reducing noise, and maintaining a good sleeping environment. Recognizing your problem and taking it seriously is an excellent start. If you want to take sleep medications, always talk to your doctor about the benefits and warnings.
