Study links poor sleep quality to increased risk of dry eye syndrome

Poor sleep quality, influenced by factors like sleep disturbances, short sleep duration, and mental health issues, significantly increases the risk of developing dry eye syndrome, according to a study. Addressing sleep-related issues and improving sleep habits may help prevent or reduce the severity of dry eye symptoms.

Researchers assessed 221 participants using the Korean version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the McMonnies Dry Eye Questionnaire to evaluate sleep habits and dry eye symptoms.

Lower subjective sleep quality, longer sleep latency, shorter sleep duration, frequent sleep disturbances, and increased daytime dysfunction were associated with more severe dry eye symptoms. Sleep fragmentation and poor thermal sleep environments were identified as key disruptors.

The study highlights the role of modern lifestyle factors, such as excessive screen time and mental health issues like stress, anxiety, and depression, in exacerbating sleep problems and, in turn, increasing the likelihood of dry eye syndrome. Researchers emphasize the importance of proactive sleep management and mental health care to reduce the risk, even for individuals not currently diagnosed with dry eye syndrome.

Reference
Jeong H, Park S, Kim H, et al. Analysis of Sleep Quality Evaluation Factors Affecting Dry Eye Syndrome. Int J Gen Med. 2025;18:1845-1854. doi: 10.2147/IJGM.S507631. PMID: 40191234; PMCID: PMC11970276.