Sleep is a fundamental pillar of good health, impacting everything from your physical well-being to cognitive function. But did you know that getting enough shut-eye is also important for maintaining healthy eyes? While most people associate sleep deprivation with fatigue and irritability, it can also contribute to surprisingly common conditions such as dry eyes, and it is important to know that lack of sleep effects more than just dry eyes.
This article explores the connection between lack of sleep and dry eyes. We will explore how sleep supports tear production and lubrication, the consequences of sleep deprivation for your eyes, and how to prioritize both restful sleep and healthy eyes.
What is the importance of tears for eye health?
Tear production is essential for preserving eye health. They lubricate the surface of the eye, washing away dust, debris, and irritants. Tears also contain important enzymes and antibodies that help fight infection and inflammation.
There are two main components, they are:
An oily layer:
Produced by the meibomian glands in the eyelids, this oil layer helps prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.
A watery layer:
Produced by the lacrimal glands located above the eyes, this layer washes away debris and keeps the eyes moist.
A healthy tear film requires a balanced contribution from both the oily and watery layers.
How does sleep support tear production and lubrication?
Our bodies go through a phase of regeneration and repair while we sleep. This includes the eyes. During sleep, the lacrimal glands become more active, producing tears that keep our eyes lubricated throughout the night.
Here is a closer look at how sleep benefits tear production:
Increased tear production:
Studies suggest that tear production spikes during sleep, particularly during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage. This ensures our eyes stay moist and protected even when we are not blinking consciously.
Improved tear quality:
Sleep also seems to influence the quality of tears. Research indicates that sleep deprivation may lead to tears with a higher concentration of salt and a lower concentration of proteins and other beneficial components. These altered tears evaporate more easily and don’t lubricate the eyes as effectively.
Improved corneal recovery:
The cornea, the clear-dome shaped surface at the front of the eye, is responsible for focussing light. During sleep, the cornea regenerates and repairs itself. This process is essential for maintaining clear vision and requires adequate tear production.
What are the consequences of lack of sleep for your eyes?
When we don’t get enough sleep, our bodies don’t have sufficient time to perform their restorative functions. This can lead to several eye problems, including dry eyes. Here’s how lack of sleep can negatively impact your eyes:
- Decreased tear production:
As mentioned earlier, lack of sleep can impact tear production, leaving your eyes dry and irritated.
- Increased tear production:
Lack of sleep may also affect the oily layer of the tear film. This can lead to faster tear evaporation, further contributing to dryness.
- Eye strain:
When you experience lack of sleep, you are more likely to experience eye strain. The cause of dry eyes may be due to staring at screens for extended periods or focusing on tasks that require close visual attention. Eye strain can worsen dry eye symptoms.
- Inflammation:
Lack of sleep can trigger a low-grade inflammatory response in the body. This inflammation can affect the tear glands and contribute to dry eyes.
- ncreased risk of infection:
Dry eyes are more susceptible to infections. When your eyes are constantly dry and irritated, the delicate balance of the tear film is disrupted, making it easier for bacteria, viruses,
What are the symptoms of dry eyes?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have dry eyes:
- Scratchy sensation in the eyes.
- Feeling of something in the eyes
- Blurred vision
- Sensitive to light
- Redness
- Stinging sensation
- Excessive tearing
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
In case you are dealing with these symptoms of dry eyes reach out to the famous eye hospital in Coimbatore to see immediate care.
What are the treatment options for dry eyes?
Lubricating drops are frequently an extremely effective treatment for dry eyes, regardless of their type. Make sure you’re using preservative-free eye drops if you suffer from persistent dry eyes.
Here are the best treatment options for dry eyes:
Prescription eye drops:
If using over-the-counter eye drops isn’t providing you with the necessary relief. Talking about a prescription eye drop could be helpful. The ophthalmologist might suggest an eye drop to induce tear production or one to lessen inflammation caused by the dryness.
Medical contact lenses:
For dry eyes, contact lenses are usually not an option. However, scleral lenses are a unique type of contact lens that may be a possibility. They have a liquid-filled pocket that spans the iris, which further helps to counteract the dryness.
Important Takeaway:
Don’t let life be impacted by dry eyes. Seeing a doctor is a good idea if sleep is the problem. Your body can be affected by sleep deprivation in ways beyond just your vision. However, if you’re getting a sufficient amount of sleep, there might be a deeper issue. Consult the best eye specialist in Coimbatore if you are dealing with eye concerns.
