By Dr. Ann Adamma Aligwekwe (OD)
Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy influenced not only by intraocular pressure (IOP) but also by lifestyle factors like stress and sleep quality. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi, we combine medical treatment with lifestyle counselling to help preserve vision and slow glaucoma progression.Understanding Glaucoma: Beyond Pressure
Glaucoma is a multifactorial disease, with factors such as blood flow, oxidative stress, and neurodegeneration playing key roles. Diurnal IOP fluctuations, often missed during daytime visits, can significantly impact optic nerve health. A holistic approach is essential for effective management.
The Role of Stress in Glaucoma Progression
How Stress Affects Eye Health
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Chronic stress increases cortisol and adrenaline, raising IOP and impairing ocular blood flow.
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Stress can worsen glaucoma by affecting vascular health and ocular perfusion.
Psychological Stress and Lifestyle
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Living with glaucoma can be emotionally taxing, leading to chronic stress and unhealthy behaviors.
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Stress management is crucial for emotional well-being and treatment adherence.
Evidence for Stress-Reducing Interventions
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Meditation and relaxation techniques may reduce IOP by 1.5–6.1 mmHg and improve ocular perfusion.
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These practices are low-cost adjuncts to standard glaucoma therapy.
Sleep Patterns, Sleep Disorders, and Glaucoma
Why Sleep Matters
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Lying flat during sleep can increase IOP and reduce ocular perfusion pressure, depriving the optic nerve of oxygen.
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Nighttime IOP spikes are often missed during daytime clinic visits.
Sleep Disorders and Glaucoma Risk
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Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and insomnia are linked to increased glaucoma risk and retinal nerve fiber layer thinning.
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OSA may contribute to glaucoma via hypoxia, oxidative stress, and vascular dysregulation.
Impact of Sleep Duration and Quality
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Sleeping less than 6 hours per night is associated with thinner retinal nerve fiber layer.
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Sleep disruption can worsen glaucoma by disturbing circadian regulation of IOP and ocular perfusion pressure.
Holistic Care at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
Personalized Glaucoma Care
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Comprehensive care plans include medical treatment, sleep hygiene, stress management, and lifestyle counselling.
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Patients are assessed for sleep habits, posture, stress levels, and lifestyle behaviors.
Stress Management as Adjunct Therapy
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Meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques are encouraged to lower IOP and improve ocular perfusion.
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Reducing stress can improve treatment adherence and overall quality of life.
Importance of Sleep Hygiene and Sleep Disorder Screening
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Regular bed and wake-up times, elevated head position, and avoiding sleeping on the side of the worse eye are recommended.
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Screening for sleep disorders and referral to sleep specialists when necessary.
Practical Advice for Glaucoma Patients
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Keep a regular sleep schedule.
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Aim for 6–8 hours of quality sleep per night.
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Pay attention to sleep quality and discuss concerns with your eye doctor.
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Consider elevating the head of your bed.
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Avoid sleeping on the side of the eye with more glaucoma damage.
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Adopt stress-reduction practices.
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Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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Communicate openly with your eye care professional about stress, sleep, and lifestyle.
Conclusion
Glaucoma is more than just high eye pressure. Successful management requires a holistic approach that includes stress management, sleep assessment, and lifestyle counselling. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi, we empower patients to take charge of their eye health and proactively reduce their risk of vision loss.
📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
Ikoyi Plaza, Keffi Street, Ikoyi, Lagos.
📞 0701 820 7486
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