Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Macular Degeneration

By Dr. Kevin -

 

A recent meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology has uncovered a significant link between Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and an increased risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).

Why the Connection?

Researchers believe the link is "biologically plausible" due to intermittent hypoxia—the repeated drops in oxygen levels that occur when breathing stops during sleep. This oxygen deprivation can lead to:

  • Oxidative Stress & Inflammation: Damaging the delicate retinal layers.

  • Vascular Dysregulation: Compromising blood flow to the eye and accelerating degenerative changes.

  • Retinal Ischemia: Potentially promoting the growth of abnormal blood vessels (neovascular AMD).

A Modifiable Risk Factor

The most encouraging takeaway is that unlike age or genetics, OSA is treatable. Managing sleep apnea through CPAP therapy, weight loss, or oral appliances may potentially reduce the stress on your ocular health.

What Should You Do?

While routine screening isn't mandatory for every AMD patient yet, we recommend staying vigilant. If you or a loved one experience loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, or morning headaches, it may be time for a sleep evaluation.

Protecting your vision starts with protecting your overall health—and that includes a good night's sleep.

Comments

Post a Comment

Leave a Comment or Question:

Popular posts from this blog

IMPLANTABLE COLLAMER LENS APPEARS BETTER THAN LASIK OR PRK FOR MODERATE TO HIGH MYOPIC PATIENTS

By Dr. Kevin -
Image
http://www2.cochrane.org/reviews/en/ab007679.html The results of this review suggest that the implantable lens (ICL) is are safer than excimer laser (the laser used in PRK and LASIK) surgical correction for moderate to high myopia in the range of -6.0 to -20.0 D and ICL is preferred by patients. ICL surgery resulted in better corrected visual acuity, better contrast sensitivity, and improved patient satisfaction. ICL may also be considered in cases where the patient has more moderate near-sightedness (in the range of -3.00 to -6.00). My personal experience with ICL gives me a high level of confidence in this procedure and the surgeon with whom I co-manage. All patients I have seen have been 20/20 or better. One patient was in the -6.00 range and the others in the -10 range! I see very little side effects. For more information, feel free to our office at 480-812-2211.
Read more

RINSING YOUR CONTACT LENS CASE IS NOT ENOUGH

By Dr. Kevin -
Image
Removal of biofilm from contact lens storage cases -- Wu et al., 10.1167/iovs.10-5796 -- Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science It has been conventional wisdom amongst eye doctors that most infections related to contact lenses actually originate from the contact lens storage case. I usually recommend rinsing the case after use and filling with fresh solution. However, it appears that thoroughly rubbing the inside of the case with clean fingers helps remove most of the biofilm on which the bacteria grow. I also usually recommend replacing one's case on a regular basis. I am surprised how many new patients come into my office with grimy, dirty contact lens cases. According to this study: "digital rubbing and rinsing, and/or wiping the lens cases with tissue are recommended. Air-drying and recapping the lens case lids after use without any additional cleaning methods or the use of antimicrobial cases should be discouraged."
Read more