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

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Yes, it is possible to fall asleep with your eyes open. This condition, known as nocturnal lagophthalmos, occurs when the eyelids do not close completely during sleep. It can result from a variety of causes, including facial nerve damage, eyelid abnormalities, thyroid issues, or certain neurological conditions. People with nocturnal lagophthalmos often experience dry, irritated eyes, blurred vision upon waking, or a gritty sensation in the eyes.

Because sleeping with your eyes open can point to underlying nerve, muscle, or eye health issues, it's important not to ignore persistent symptoms. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify possible causes based on your specific symptoms and guide you on the best next steps—whether that means seeing an ophthalmologist, neurologist, or primary care provider. Taking a few minutes now could save you from prolonged discomfort or complications later.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if falling asleep with open eyes is serious Discover likely causes of sleeping with eyes open See what open-eye sleep could indicate Find OTC options for eye dryness relief Find a doctor for sleep or eye concerns Understand home remedies for dry, tired eyes Find out if your open-eye sleep needs care

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Explanation

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 dry eyes, redness, or irritation, you can check your symptoms using a free AI symptom checker to help understand what might be causing your discomfort. A healthcare provider can provide a personalized medical assessment and recommend appropriate treatment.

(References)

Filtness AJ, Anund A, Fors C, Ahlström C, Akerstedt T, & Kecklund G. (2014). Sleep-related eye symptoms and their potential for .... Journal of sleep research, 24861146.
Latkany RL, Lock B, & Speaker M. (2006). Nocturnal lagophthalmos: an overview and classification. The ocular surface, 16671223.
Leu-Semenescu S, & Arnulf I. (2010). [Disruptive nocturnal behavior in elderly subjects: could it .... Psychologie & neuropsychiatrie du vieillissement, 20525541.

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