While you drift off into dreamland, your eyes are far from inactive. In fact, your eyes fo through a fascinating series of changes and processes while you sleep- some essential for healing, some involved in dreaming, and others that can explain why you sometimes wake up with dry or puffy eyes. Let’s take a look behind the eyelids to explore the secret life of your eyes at night.

 

          Your eyes get a much-needed break

During the day, your eyes are constantly in motion- focusing, adjusting to light, blinking, and processing information. When you sleep, your eyes finally get a chance to rest. Your blink rate slows dramatically, reducing strain and allowing the tear film to stabilize and repair the eye’s surface.

 

          Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep

One of the most intriguing parts of sleep is the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage. This is when most dreaming happens-and yes, your eyes do move rapidly under your closed lids. While scientists are still studying why this occurs, some believe the eye movements may be connected to visual processing in dreams, like you’re “watching” the dream play out.

 

          Natural Eye Healing

Your eyes use sleep time to recover from daily stress. Increased blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to the eye tissues. This natural repair process helps maintain eye health and may even reduce inflammation caused by screen exposure, dry air, or allergies.

 

          Why you wake up with puffy or dry eyes

It’s not uncommon to wake up with dry, itchy, or puffy eyes. Several factors can contribute to this:

• Sleeping with your eyes slightly open (a condition called nocturnal lagophthalmos)
• Allergies or sinus congestion
• Poor-quality sleep or sleeping face down
• Using fans or sleeping in dry environments without a humidifier

A good sleep posture, a gentle eye mask, and proper hydration can help reduce morning eye issues.

 

           Tear Production Slows Down

Your body slows tear production at night, which is why people with dry eye syndrome may feel worse in the morning. If you frequently wake up with stinging or gritty eyes, talk to one of our doctors about night-time lubricating gels,drops, or other possible treatments.

 

 

Tips for happy eyes overnight:

• Remove all makeup before bed to prevent irritation and infections.
• Use a humidifier if your bedroom air is dry
• Try a warm compress before sleep if you suffer from dry or tired eyes
• Limit screen time before bed to avoid over-stimulating your eyes and brain.

Final Thought:

Your eyes do more at night than simply stay shut. From dream-driven movements to healing and restoration, they play a key role in your overall health while you sleep. Treat your eyes well-both day and night- and they will serve you clearly for years to come. One important way to treat your eyes well is with an annual eye exam. Call us today to schedule yours!

                                                                                                                 Koetting Eye Center

                                                                     Brentwood                                    Ellisville

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