Glaucoma-sleep apnea syndrome

Glaucoma-sleep apnea syndrome is a rare condition in which two problems occur together: glaucoma (a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye) and obstructive sleep apnea (a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep because the airway becomes blocked). The connection between these two conditions has been recognized in medical literature, and researchers believe that the repeated drops in blood oxygen levels during sleep apnea episodes may contribute to damage of the optic nerve, worsening glaucoma. Additionally, changes in pressure inside the eye during sleep and altered blood flow to the optic nerve may play a role. Patients with this syndrome may notice gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision, blurred vision, eye pain or pressure, loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss, and untreated sleep apnea raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. Treatment focuses on managing both conditions separately but in a coordinated way. Glaucoma is typically treated with eye drops that lower eye pressure, laser treatments, or surgery. Sleep apnea is most commonly treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, which keeps the airway open during sleep. Treating sleep apnea may also help slow the progression of glaucoma by improving oxygen delivery to the optic nerve. Regular monitoring by both an eye specialist and a sleep medicine doctor is essential.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.Could my sleep apnea be making my glaucoma worse, and how?,How often should I have my eye pressure and optic nerve checked?,Will using my CPAP machine help protect my vision?,What eye drop schedule is best for me, and are there side effects I should watch for?,Should my family members be screened for glaucoma or sleep apnea?,Are there lifestyle changes that could help both my glaucoma and sleep apnea?,What are the signs that my condition is getting worse and I need to come in sooner?

Common questions about Glaucoma-sleep apnea syndrome