Do you have trouble sleeping? Not sleeping well can lead to more than just tired eyes – insomnia has now been identified as a sign of increased risk of developing AMD, or Age-related Macular Degeneration. The study followed over 15,000 patients aged 55 and older with newly diagnosed insomnia experienced for over 9 years, and found that the group developed AMD at a rate higher than non-insomniacs. Researchers believe that older adults’ decreased levels of melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep and wakefulness may be the cause. If you or a loved one suffers from insomnia, regular eye exams should be an important part of your overall health regimen. Share with anyone you know who may suffer from insomnia.
