The Connection Between Sleep Apnea and Retinal Disease
Sleep apnea, a common condition where breathing repeatedly pauses during sleep, doesn’t just affect rest – it can also impact overall health, including vision. People with sleep apnea face a higher risk of developing retinal diseases, making it essential to understand these potential effects. Managing sleep apnea and staying on top of regular eye exams can go a long way in protecting your eyesight.
Sleep Apnea and Common Retinal Conditions
Sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of developing several retinal disorders, including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal vein occlusion, and central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). When someone stops breathing during the night, their oxygen levels drop and then jump back up once breathing resumes. Constant fluctuations in oxygen levels can affect eye pressure, leading to inflammation, which can lead to or worsen retinal disease.
Additionally, OSA is prevalent among the same groups of people who are at risk for conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and AMD. Shared risk factors for both OSA and retinal diseases include being overweight, smoking, and having medical conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Managing Sleep Apnea and Improving Retinal Health
Managing sleep apnea often involves making lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, reducing excessive alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, and eating nutritious foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, beans, and fish is especially beneficial for retinal health. If you have sleep apnea, it's important to have a comprehensive eye exam with dilation at least once a year. A retina specialist can detect signs of AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal conditions, often before any symptoms appear.
Learn More About Sleep Apnea and Vision
Sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of retinal disease. Therefore, those with the condition or who are at high risk of developing it should closely monitor their retinal health. The retina specialists at Retina Group of Florida can help diagnose and treat a wide range of retinal conditions that may impact patients with sleep apnea, including AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and more. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located clinics in Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Clearwater, Port St. Lucie, Sarasota, Naples, and surrounding areas.
