Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes frequent interruptions in breathing throughout the night. The most common cause is an obstruction in the upper airway, usually caused by the tongue or soft tissues in the back of the mouth collapsing. Without any treatment, it can lead to several physical and mental health concerns. Besides an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, and sleep deprivation, new research has found a link to blindness.
Sleep Apnea and Blindness Connection
It isn’t any secret sleep apnea can worsen diabetic symptoms, but that’s not the only concern. Research from Taiwan has found patients with severe sleep apnea have an increased risk of diabetic macular edema. Researchers also found the condition was more difficult to treat in patients with severe sleep apnea, increasing the risk of complete blindness.
Uncontrolled diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels in the back of the eye, which is known as diabetic retinopathy. In some patients, the blood vessels can develop tiny bulges that leak fluid or blood into the retina, causing inflammation. This can make it almost impossible to see well.
The issue for sleep apnea suffers comes from fluctuations in oxygen levels. Each pause in breathing depletes oxygen, which causes various reactions in the body, especially in the cardiovascular system. People with sleep apnea have a heightened risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks, and stroke. However, they are also likely to have type 2 diabetes.
Researchers believe sleep apnea can contribute to or worsen diabetic retinopathy because of increased insulin resistance, inflammation, and blood vessels. Each of the issues can damage the blood vessels located at the back of the eye.
Although further evidence is needed to find the exact connection, you can safeguard your eyesight and get a good night’s rest with sleep apnea therapy.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Therapy
You have more options than ever to treat sleep apnea to safeguard your health and quality of life by stopping interruptions in your breathing. You may be a candidate for one or more sleep apnea therapy solutions, including:
CPAP
A small mask is worn over the nose to deliver a gentle stream of air pressure to prevent low oxygen levels. It can be used alone or along with an oral appliance.
Oral Appliance
An oral appliance is a customized device that moves the tongue and lower jaw forward to keep the airway open. It has been shown effective in treating mild-to-moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea.
Life is stressful enough without having to worry about losing your vision. You can stop tossing and turning with the right sleep apnea treatment. You’ll breathe easier, sleep better, and keep blindness at bay.
About Dr. West
Dr. West earned her dental degree at the University of Southern California Dental School before focusing her training on sleep medicine and other advanced services, like neuromuscular dentistry. She is a member of various professional organizations, like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the American Sleep and Breathing Academy. If you’re ready to treat your sleep apnea, contact our office today to request a consultation.