Sleep deprivation can have a negative impact on both mental health and physical health. Eye problems such as dryness and itching may be experienced after episodes of sleep deprivation. But dry eyes aren’t the only concern. Long-term sleep deprivation comes with an increased risk for eye disease due to its effect on the cornea.
The cornea is the transparent tissue layer covering the eye and is vital for the proper health and function of the eye. It is maintained by stem cells which can repair small injuries and replace dying cells. This stem cell activity needs to be precisely tuned to work correctly and produce new corneal cells. Dysregulation of corneal stem cells can lead to eye disease and impaired vision.
The new study published in Stem Cell Reports evaluated how sleep deprivation impacts corneal stem cells. The research done on mice found that short-term sleep deprivation increased the rate at which stem cells in the cornea multiplied. Sleep deprivation also altered the composition of the protective film, reducing the tear film antioxidant.
This research revealed that serious effects on corneal health, such as thinning and ruffling of the cornea and loss of transparency, were detected after long-term sleep deprivation. Researchers believe that the persistent stimulation of stem cell activity over longer periods led to exhaustion and loss of corneal stem cells, possibly leading to vision impairment in the long run.
Clearly, sleep deprivation is a serious problem that can have far-reaching consequences. If you are not getting enough sleep, it is important to talk to your doctor about possible solutions. There are a number of treatment options available that can help you get the rest you need to stay healthy and productive.
Protecting Eye Health Through Sleep
Sleep Sure Plus is designed to help promote optimal sleep and restfulness. With a variety of ingredients, including melatonin and valerian, it can improve mood, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve sleep quality.
Poor vision and eye problems can have an effect on everyday life. This research has shed light on the impact of sleep deprivation on eye health, but one of the primary causes of vision loss is age-related and due to low levels of lutein and zeaxanthin. These natural pigments called carotenoids have been shown to protect the eye from oxidative damage. 20/20 Vision contains these essential carotenoids along with other vitamins, minerals, and herbal ingredients to help support and maximize vision and eye health.