Is it possible to fall asleep with your eyes open, and what does it indicate?

Falling asleep with your eyes open is a condition known as nocturnal lagophthalmos. This means that when a person falls asleep, their eyelids do not fully close. This can happen for various reasons.

Some of Possible Causes of Nocturnal Lagopthalmos

• Congenital: Sometimes people are born with eyelids that do not close completely.
• Damage to the Eyelid Muscles or Certain Nerves: If eyelid muscles are damaged by infection, injury, or inflammation, the eyelids may not be able to close completely during sleep. Also, if a condition affecting the brain or certain facial nerves limits the ability of the eyelid muscles to move, this can cause nocturnal lagopthalmos.
• Some Conditions That Affect the Eye: Health conditions that can cause the eye to bulge forward (including a thyroid disease called Graves' Disease) can lead to nocturnal lagopthalmos.

Some Other Things to Know About Nocturnal Lagopthalmos

• Possible Consequences of Nocturnal Lagopthalmos: Nocturnal lagophthalmos can lead to symptoms like dry eyes, red eyes, or irritation because the eyes are not protected by the eyelids.
• Nocturnal Lagopthalmos Is Treatable: Various treatments can help improve or reduce the effects of nocturnal lagopthalmos.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, a healthcare provider can provide a personalized medical assessment and recommend appropriate treatment. Also, more information about nocturnal lagopthalmos is available at https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/sleeping-with-eyes-open.