
In one type of surgery, a gold surgical implant is inserted into the eyelid that works like an eyelid weight to keep the eye closed while someone is sleeping. There are multiple surgeries that can treat lagophthalmos. Applying surgical tape to the eyelids also serves the same purpose.Īnother option is surgery, though this is usually only recommended for severe cases. This is attached to the outside of the upper eyelids to keep them closed. Sleeping with a humidifier in the bedroom can also keep the surrounding air moist and less likely to dry out the eyes.Ī doctor may recommend using an external eyelid weight. These work by moisturizing the eyes during sleep.
ophthalmic ointments to help prevent scratchesĪ person can also wear moisture goggles at night, which can help. Share on Pinterest Up to 20 percent of people may sleep with their eyes open.Ī doctor might also prescribe medications, including: There is not always a reason or underlying condition that causes nocturnal lagophthalmos. Very thick upper or lower eyelashes may also prevent the eyelid from closing completely, though this is rare. Graves’ ophthalmopathy, where the eyes bulge or protrude, can also make it difficult to close the eyes. Infections can be less common causes, and these may include: Trauma, injury, or surgery can also result in damage and paralysis to facial muscles and nerves. a rare neurological condition called Moebius syndrome that affects the muscles controlling facial and eye movement. autoimmune diseases, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome. Paralysis or weakening of the muscle that closes the eyelids, known as the orbicularis oculi, can cause someone to sleep with their eyes open.Ĭonditions that can cause muscle weakness or paralysis of the facial nerves include: People usually sleep with their eyes open because of a problem with the facial muscles, nerves, or skin around the eyelids. Most people realize they have slept with their eyes open because another person tells them they have done so. feeling as if something is in the eye or rubbing against it. Without enough lubrication, the eyes are more susceptible to infections and can become scratched and damaged. If people keep their eyes open while sleeping, their eyes can dry out.
It can also occur because of problems with the skin around the eyelids. One reason that it happens is problems with the facial nerves or muscles that make it difficult to keep the eyes fully closed. The medical term for sleeping with the eyes open is nocturnal lagophthalmos. A person who sleeps with their eyes open regularly could end up with severe eye problems, however. Some may think this habit is odd, but it is quite common. People who sleep with their eyes open may wake up feeling their eyes are dry and grainy.