Sleep is an essential period of nightly downtime in which the body restores itself. A number of fascinating things happen during sleep, including the brain replaying and processing information from the day, stress hormones lowering, and the immune system strengthening. When a person doesn't get enough sleep, it can have adverse effects on their entire system—and that includes the eyes. Below are a few ocular health dangers eye doctors have determined are worsened by lack of sleep.

Lack of Focus

One of the short-term eye effects of insufficient sleep is a lack of visual focus. The muscles in the eyes are strained and tired, and it takes them longer to respond to visual stimuli, resulting in difficulty focusing on objects in the environment. In some cases, a person might experience double vision as well.

The good news is that these symptoms will typically go away after a good night's sleep or after the body has reached a more awakened state.

Dry & Red Eyes

Blinking and closing the eyelids can help lubricate the eyes, remove irritants, and keep them moist. Without enough sleep, the eyes may not get the moisture they need, and they might feel dry, gritty, or itchy.

When the cornea and conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the eye) become inflamed from a shortage of lubrication, the eye takes on a red, bloodshot look.

Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

Chronic sleep problems—especially sleep apnea, in which constricted airways cause lack of adequate sleep—can result in a serious eye condition called ischemic optic neuropathy.

This disorder disrupts the healthy flow of blood to the optic nerve, and the damage can be permanent, leading to eye pain, compromised vision, and total vision loss. Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes is a symptom of ischemic optic neuropathy, so always visit an eye doctor immediately if this occurs.

If you're experiencing eye problems from inadequate sleep, let the eye doctors at Midwest Eye Center: A Division of Tri-State Centers for Sight help you find solutions. Serving the greater Cincinnati and northern Kentucky region, they offer comprehensive eye care services. From cataract and glaucoma testing and treatment to LASIK and other laser-assisted procedures, they’re committed to helping you maintain your vision. Call (859) 525-6215 or visit their website to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor today.