Have your eyes been a little dry lately? Or maybe you’re more sensitive to light? It could be the result of not getting enough shut-eye. Studies show that our eyes need at least 5 hours to “recharge”. Less than that and eyes can’t function optimally. Over time, this can lead to more eye trouble, like bursting blood vessels, dry eye and more due to eye strain.

Sleep is our body’s way of getting ready for the next day. When you don’t get enough sleep, your eyes are a dead giveaway that you’re tired. When you don’t produce enough tears to keep your eyes lubricated, you might experience dryness, light sensitivity, itchiness, redness and sometimes even blurred vision.

Long-term lack of sleep can sometimes lead to more serious eye conditions such as Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (AION). So keep your eyes healthy and get enough Zs. If you have trouble falling asleep, try limiting your caffeine intake during the day and especially before bed, take a warm bath, use aromatherapy and other relaxation techniques and avoid working out right before bed.

And if you’re still experiencing eye problems and you’re getting enough sleep, we recommend seeing your eye doctor for a checkup.