Can Sleep Apnea Make You Go Blind?

The systems within the human body form a complex network; when something goes wrong in one area, it can have far-reaching consequences! For example, poor-quality sleep can affect many aspects of your health. It might even increase your chances of going blind, particularly if you have diabetes. What is the connection between sleep apnea and vision problems among diabetics? This blog post explains.

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Blindness

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition where your airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. These interruptions can lead to reduced oxygen levels in your blood and increased stress on your entire body. If you have diabetes, sleep apnea can make it more difficult to manage your condition. In turn, you may be at a greater risk of vision problems.

One of the main vision problems associated with diabetes is diabetic retinopathy. This condition occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in your retina, the part of your eye that detects light and sends signals to your brain. Over time, these damaged blood vessels can leak fluid or blood, leading to a condition known as macular edema.

The macula is the central part of your retina, which is responsible for sharp, detailed vision. Macular edema happens when fluid builds up in the macula, causing it to swell and distort your vision.

Studies have shown that obstructive sleep apnea can worsen diabetic retinopathy and macular edema. Therefore, even though the connection between OSA and blindness is somewhat indirect, it definitely exists!

What Can You Do to Protect Your Vision?

If you have diabetes and sleep apnea, it is important to take steps to protect your vision. Here are some tips to help you:

• Treat your sleep apnea: Many patients find that a custom oral appliance from a dentist is an effective way to keep their airway open during sleep, leading to higher-quality rest.
• Manage your blood sugar: Keep your blood sugar levels under control with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication. This can help prevent damage to the blood vessels in your eyes.
• Attend regular eye checkups: Visit your eye doctor regularly to monitor your vision and check for signs of diabetic retinopathy and macular edema. Early detection and treatment can prevent severe vision loss.
• Control your blood pressure: High blood pressure can worsen diabetic retinopathy. Make sure to monitor your blood pressure and take medications if recommended by your doctor.
• Stop smoking: Smoking can increase inflammation and damage to your blood vessels. It may also worsen OSA symptoms.

Your vision is precious, and sleep apnea might endanger it! Take steps now to manage both your OSA and your diabetes.

Meet the Practice

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, Drs. Koops and Mollica are proud to help patients find relief from sleep apnea via custom oral appliance therapy. This popular CPAP alternative can greatly reduce symptoms and promote overall health. To learn more or to request a consultation, contact our office at 216-464-2448.