The eye and sleep apnea

Sleep Med Rev. 2007 Aug;11(4):269-76. doi: 10.1016/j.smrv.2007.03.006.

Abstract

Several eye disorders have been found in association with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This paper reviews the current state of knowledge of eye disorders associated with OSA. OSA is associated with a number of eye disorders including floppy eyelid syndrome (FES), optic neuropathy, glaucoma, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and papilledema secondary to raised intracranial pressure. FES patients have a very high incidence of OSA and a causal relationship may exist, but amongst patients with OSA, FES is uncommon but commoner than in the general population. Treatment of OSA may help floppy eyelid syndrome, halt progression of associated glaucoma or optic neuropathy, and reduce intracranial pressure in patients with associated papilledema. Sleep apnea patients should be asked about ocular symptoms and appropriately examined or referred for assessment as some of the associated eye disorders may permanently impair vision. Ophthalmologists should be aware of the association of sleep apnea with these eye disorders and consider referral to a sleep physician for investigation and possible treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Eyelid Diseases / complications*
  • Eyelid Diseases / diagnosis
  • Glaucoma / complications*
  • Glaucoma / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Obesity / complications
  • Optic Neuropathy, Ischemic / complications*
  • Optic Neuropathy, Ischemic / diagnosis
  • Papilledema / complications*
  • Papilledema / diagnosis
  • Polysomnography
  • Research Design
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes / complications*
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes / diagnosis
  • Syndrome