Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Ophthalmic Disorders-Clinical Implications

Sleep is essential for physical, mental and emotional well being. Body systems require sleep of good quality and quantity for their proper functioning. There are several sleep disorders. Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is one of the most important disorders identified in the last 50 years. The disorder has systemic ill effects by virtue of cyclical hypoxia and sympathetic stimulation. It is a risk factor for the development of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, stroke and dementia. Retina being the highest oxygen consuming part of the body, is particularly vulnerable to the effects of hypoxia. Several eye disorders have been identified to be associated with OSAHS. In clinical practice Identifying and treating sleep disorders have been rewarding.