Do you often wake up with dry, scratchy eyes? Do you find yourself rubbing your eyes more often than usual during the day? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of dry eye syndrome disease (DES). But did you know that dry eyes can also be linked to poor sleep quality? In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between dry eyes and sleep and how you can improve both.
Learn more about dry eyes by reading What Could Be Causing My Dry Eye Syndrome?
The Dry Eye-Sleep Connection
First, let's define what dry eye syndrome is. DES occurs when the eyes are unable to produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, redness, and a gritty feeling in the eyes. Dry eye syndrome is a common condition, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Now, let's examine how dry eyes can affect your sleep quality. When your eyes are dry, it can be difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. This is because your eyes may feel itchy or uncomfortable, making it hard to relax. And if you sleep with your eyes partially open, which many people do without realizing it, the air can dry out your eyes even more.
Another way that dry eyes can affect your sleep quality is through sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep. This can lead to snoring, gasping, or choking sounds, and can result in a decreased quality of sleep. Studies have shown that people with sleep apnea are more likely to experience dry eyes. This is because the air that passes through the mouth and nose during sleep can be drying to the eyes.
So, what can you do to improve both your dry eyes and your sleep quality? Here are some tips:
- Use eye drops: Over-the-counter eye drops can help lubricate your eyes and provide relief from dryness. Be sure to choose drops that are specifically designed for dry eyes, and avoid drops that contain preservatives.
- Avoid allergens: If you have allergies, they may be contributing to your dry eyes. Try to avoid allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander as much as possible.
- Take breaks from screens: Staring at a computer or phone screen for extended periods of time can contribute to dry eyes. Take breaks every 20 minutes or so to rest your eyes.
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help relieve dry eyes. Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep.
- Treat sleep apnea: If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it's important to seek treatment. This can include lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or changing sleep position, as well as medical interventions like a CPAP machine.
- Practice good sleep hygiene: Finally, make sure you're practicing good sleep hygiene. This means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and creating a comfortable sleep environment.
If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye syndrome,
take our REVITAL-EYES Dry Eyes Quiz and find out your Dry Eyes Score.
Sleep Well And See Well With Comprehensive Dry Eye Relief
Dry eyes and sleep quality are closely linked. If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eye syndrome, it may be affecting your ability to sleep well. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve both your dry eyes and your sleep quality. By using eye drops, avoiding allergens, taking breaks from screens, using a humidifier, treating sleep apnea, practicing good sleep hygiene, and seeing your optometrist regularly you can ensure that you're getting the restful, rejuvenating sleep you need.
To determine the severity and cause of your dry eyes, schedule an eye exam at Blink Eyewear so we can help you see clearly and comfortably. With three convenient locations in Crowfoot in NW Calgary, West Springs in SW Calgary, and Creekside in NW Calgary, Blink Eyewear can offer you excellent optometry services throughout the city. To book an appointment with Blink Eyewear, call 1-403-516-2292 or fill out the online contact form.