01/22/2026
😴 Snoring & Your Sight: The Surprising Link to Glaucoma
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and at Barnett Eyecare, we want to highlight an important — and often overlooked — risk factor: Sleep Apnea.
You might not think a sleep disorder could affect your eyes, but research shows a strong connection. People with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — often marked by loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and daytime fatigue — may be up to 10 times more likely to develop glaucoma.
Why does sleep apnea increase glaucoma risk?
🔹 Oxygen Deprivation:
During apnea episodes, breathing briefly stops, lowering blood oxygen levels. Over time, this can damage the optic nerve.
🔹 Blood Flow Changes:
Fluctuations in blood pressure during sleep can reduce blood flow to the optic nerve, increasing the risk of vision loss.
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it usually has no early symptoms. Early detection is key to protecting your vision.
You may be at higher risk if you have:
• Age over 40
• Family history of glaucoma
• Obesity
• High blood pressure or diabetes
• Untreated sleep apnea
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, regular comprehensive eye exams are essential.
📞 Protect your vision this January!Call Barnett Eyecare to schedule your eye exam and discuss your personal risk factors.