
Over time, nocturnal lagophthalmos may damage the cornea from persistent dryness - a condition called keratitis - and increase the risk of corneal ulcers, perforation, and vision loss. Nocturnal lagophthalmos symptoms are usually the worst in the morning and improve over the course of the day. Because ocular lubrication mitigates the drying effect of nocturnal lagophthalmos, older adults are more likely to have symptoms due to age-related reduction in tear quality and production. The symptoms a person experiences depend on the severity of the condition and a person’s age. Not everyone with nocturnal lagophthalmos notices symptoms. Signs You May Be Sleeping With Your Eyes Open However, sleepwalking is considered a separate issue from nocturnal lagophthalmos. For example, people who sleepwalk frequently have their eyes open during sleepwalking episodes. In some circumstances, a person’s eyes can be open while they’re asleep without it meaning they have nocturnal lagophthalmos.


Short or Weak Eyelids: Numerous conditions can either shorten the eyelids or decrease their muscle tone, thereby preventing the eyelids from fully closing.Possible causes of proptosis include thyroid disorders like Graves disease, congenital conditions affecting the anatomy of the face, an infection, or a tumor. Proptosis (Bulging Eyeball): When the eyeball protrudes, it creates more surface area for the eyelids to cover.Numerous conditions can predispose individuals to these issues: Nocturnal lagophthalmos can have many causes, including faulty eyelid mechanics, facial nerve disorders, and structural changes in the face. What Causes You to Sleep With Your Eyes Open? When we experience darkness, melatonin is produced, telling our body it’s time to sleep.

Specific cells in the retina process light and send information to the hypothalamus, signaling that it’s time to be awake. They also provide lubrication and prevent the eyes from drying out.Ĭlosing our eyes also blocks light, which is crucial for calibrating the body’s internal 24-hour clock. Eyelids act as a protective barrier, keeping the eyes safe from debris. Our eyelids play an important role in getting a good night’s sleep.
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Research studies indicate that about 1 in 20 people do not shut their eyes while sleeping.īecause nocturnal lagophthalmos can significantly affect both sleep quality and eye health, it is beneficial to know the signs of this condition and how to treat it. This condition, known as nocturnal lagophthalmos, is relatively common. For that reason, it may be surprising to learn that some people sleep with their eyes partially or fully open.

Closing your eyes is a defining feature of sleep.
