Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Sleep Apnea and your Eyes

Thursday, April 08, 2010

Sleep Apnea and Your Eyes

The relationship between our eyes and our sleep has taken on another connection. In a study published in the April edition of Ophthalmology, British researchers noted a strong correlation between patients suffering with a disease known as Floppy Eyelid Syndrome (FES) and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

A patient that is experiencing FES has eyelids that are rubbery in their texture. They easily flip up during sleep irritating and drying out the eyes. The significant common association between FES and OSA is that they both are frequent in middle-aged overweight men. The study led by Daniel G. Ezra, MD, of Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, England, found the strong OSA-FES association. "About one-third (32 of 102) FES patients in our study also had OSA," Dr. Ezra said.

He felt as though the patients with OSA prefer to sleep on their sides in order to lessen their apneic events. This could be leading to intense pressure on the eyelids on that side of the face. This is one of the factors that could be contributing to FES. The study also revealed that the FES was resolved in the OSA patients who were treated with a properly fitting CPAP (continuous positive air pressure).

We continue to discover that obstructive sleep apnea is affecting our levels on levels never imagined. This underscores the importance of recognizing the problem and being treated effectively. Should you have any questions about Obstructive Sleep Apnea and how it may be affecting your life, please give us a call at 561-394-9000. We will arrange for an appointment to screen you to determine if you may indeed be suffering with OSA. Let us help you get back on the track to a better night’s sleep!

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.