Sleep Disorder and Eye Problems Linked


British scientists have produced research that shows that there is a definitive link between eye problem, floppy eyelid syndrome (FES), and the sleep disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The research, conducted at London’s Moorfield Eye Hospital, suggests that discovering the link between the two conditions will help doctors to look for and diagnose both conditions in patients. It is hoped that this research will lead to improved diagnosis and quicker treatment of both conditions across the world.

The researchers, led by Daniel G. Ezra, conducted a study that involved monitoring 102 participants with floppy eye syndrome over a three year period. The researchers found that over a third of participants also suffered from the sleep apnea disorder. The researchers have now been able to determine a number of links between the two conditions. People with floppy eyelid syndrome have rubbery upper eyelids that flip up during sleep and expose the whites of the eyes, leading to irritation of the eyes. The study found that patients who had obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) would not awake from sleep even when the eyelid was subjected to stress. The study also found that people with OSA were likely to sleep on one side, causing an undue amount of pressure on one eyelid. The scientists claim that a combination of these two factors can directly cause floppy eyelid syndrome.

The research team have now developed an effective method of treating FES in patients who also suffer from the sleep disorder. Researchers found that floppy eyelid syndrome could be corrected in OSA sufferers by using a positive airway pressure mask. It is hoped that this research will be used to improve diagnose of both conditions and to successfully treat floppy eyelid syndrome.

5th April 2010

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