The quality of sleep is closely linked to eye health. Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining optimal eye health and function.

According to Master of Science, Doctor Luong Thi Anh Thu from the High-Tech Eye Center, Tam Anh General Hospital Ha Noi, during sleep, the eyes initiate a self-renewal and recovery process essential for maintaining healthy vision. This is when the ocular surface is fully lubricated, irritants like dust, pollen, and allergens accumulated throughout the day are removed, and the eyes rest after prolonged exposure to bright light and environmental factors. This process occurs regularly whenever the eyes rest, helping maintain a balanced state. When an individual experiences prolonged sleep deprivation, these self-protective mechanisms are disrupted, increasing the risk of various eye conditions.

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition among those with insufficient sleep. Not getting enough sleep reduces the eyes' natural ability to retain moisture, disturbing the tear film. Patients may experience grittiness, burning, eye redness, accompanied by eye strain or transient blurred vision. If this condition persists, the corneal surface can be damaged, affecting vision quality and causing daily discomfort.

Working or studying at night, especially in inadequate lighting conditions, increases the accommodative burden on the eyes. Maintaining this habit over a long period can worsen refractive errors, particularly in nearsighted individuals, with their prescription increasing faster than those who maintain a regular routine. Staying up late often involves prolonged use of computers and phones. Blue light emitted from these devices can damage the retina if the eyes are continuously exposed at night. In the long term, this habit increases the risk of retinal diseases, with a growing trend of younger onset.

Doctor Thu recommends establishing scientific sleep habits to promote healthy eyes. Maintaining a fixed daily sleep and wake schedule, aligned with the body's circadian rhythm, helps improve sleep quality. Creating a dark, quiet, and cool sleeping environment is also beneficial. Limiting stimulants like caffeine and alcohol in the evening contributes to adequate rest for the eyes and body. Additionally, using a humidifier or maintaining appropriate humidity in the bedroom supports eye moisture throughout the night, especially for those who frequently experience dry eyes.

If persistent eye discomfort occurs or a sleep disorder is suspected, individuals should seek medical consultation. A doctor can then guide the patient in adjusting lifestyle habits or recommend specialized ophthalmological or neurological examinations if needed.

Thu Giang