Sleep is essential for every part of your body, including your eyes. Without adequate rest, your eyes can experience strain, discomfort, and even long-term health issues. Let’s explore how sleep impacts your vision and why prioritizing rest is key for eye health.

The Role of Sleep in Eye Health
When you sleep, your eyes take a break from the constant demands of focusing and processing visual information. During this time:
• Tears Replenish: Sleep helps maintain proper moisture levels in your eyes, preventing dryness and irritation.
• Healing Occurs: Rest allows your eyes to repair, as well as recover from daily exposure to light and screen use.
• Pressure Balances: Proper sleep helps regulate intraocular pressure, reducing the risk of glaucoma.

Signs of Poor Sleep Affecting Your Eyes

Dryness: Insufficient sleep can cause your eyes to feel gritty or dry.
Redness: Bloodshot eyes are a common sign of sleep deprivation.
Blurred Vision: Lack of rest can lead to temporary focusing issues.
Dark Circles: While cosmetic, dark under-eye circles often point to poor sleep habits.

Tips for Better Eye Health Through Sleep
• Stick to a Schedule: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every night.
• Reduce Screen Time Before Bed: Blue light can disrupt your sleep cycle, so avoid screen-use within 2 hours of going to sleep.
• Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
• Stay Hydrated: Proper throughout the day hydration supports overall eye health and recovery during sleep.

By prioritizing rest, you not only improve your overall well-being but also protect your vision for the long haul. Prioritise your vision by visiting Van Eeden & Le Roux Optometrists.