Some people might think that sleeping with eyes open is a type of the many sleep disorders. In fact, sleeping with eyes open is not a type of sleep disorders of any kind. A lot of people also think that sleeping with eyes open can only happen in fictional movies. The truth is, sleeping with eyes open is a medical condition that 6% to 10% of the whole population is actually suffering from this medical condition.

Sleep Disorders: Nocturnal Lagophthalmos

The medical term referring to a person sleeping with his or her eyes open is “Nocturnal Lagophthalmos”. Sleeping with eyes open can cause eyes to be exposed to the open atmosphere for long periods of time. Exposing the eyes to the open atmosphere for long periods of time can cause drying of the eyes. Drying of the eyes can happen, because, as the eyes close, it functions to lubricate. Medical professionals say that when a person is suffering from nocturnal lagophthalmos, it can be an indicator of nerve problems and/or muscular problems. And for some people who do not have any underlying medical conditions, sleeping with their eyes open is a part of their everyday life.

Nocturnal Lagophthalmos Linked to Sleep Disorders

There are several types of eye disorders, including nocturnal lagophthalmos, which are associated with sleep disorders. People who are suffering from nocturnal lagophthalmos may not be aware that they are suffering from the said condition, not unless someone will be able to tell them that they sleep with their eyes partially or totally open. Nocturnal lagophthalmos is not a life-threatening medical condition, however, this condition should not be treated easily, since it can cause the eyes to dry, get irritated, and it can also injure the corneas. Closing the eyes while sleeping is important to let the eyes rest from a day’s work and it is also important in getting rid of daily exposure to irritants found in the environment, such as dust particles, dirt, and ultraviolet light.

Sleep Disorders: Exercises for Nocturnal Lagophthalmos

Artificial tears or eye drops may be administered to help in keeping the eyes lubricated. In fact, doing blinking exercises can be beneficial for people suffering from nocturnal lagophthalmos, since blinking can stimulate lubrication in the eyes. Aside from keeping the eyes lubricated, blinking also removes foreign bodies or debris out from the eyes, which makes the eye healthy. Blinking as a form of exercise done by those who are suffering from nocturnal lagophthalmos is very beneficial. Even though nocturnal lagophthalmos is not serious in many cases, it should not be taken for granted for it can cause negative effects to the body, just like any sleep disorders.