DID YOU KNOW THEY ARE LINKED? Floppy Eyelid Syndrome and Sleep Apnea
Have you heard of floppy eyelid syndrome (FES)? We see patients every week who are affected by it. Even though it can lead
protecting the eye, and that exposure can lead to itchiness, irritation, discharge, or an infection. Another telltale sign of FES is if your eyelashes are droopy or hang down at a strange angle. The floppy eyelid does not maintain the proper orientation of the lashes along with the chronic pressure from the pillow, while sleeping, redirects the lashes. THE LINK BETWEEN FES AND SLEEP APNEA Studies have shown a strong correlation between those who have FES and obstructive sleep apnea. One recent study found that 90% of participants who had FES also had obstructive sleep apnea, which puts them at a higher risk of a stroke, heart attack, cancer, atrial fibrillation, high blood pressure, diabetes, and dementia. Sleep apnea also leads to chronic fatigue, which puts you at a greater risk of falling asleep while driving and other dangers.
Both FES and obstructive sleep apnea are underdiagnosed. FES can be treated with an ointment or the use of a protective eye covering while you sleep. If Dr. Scott diagnoses you with FES, he’ll also recommend that you contact your internist to schedule a sleep study to check for sleep apnea and learn about potential treatments. It can be hard to know if you have apnea, but if your significant other tells you that you snore loudly or stop breathing, this is a strong and dangerous sign. If you’d like to do a self-assessment to evaluate your risk of sleep apnea, you can visit StopBang.ca/osa/screening.php. If you have concerns about FES, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Scott by calling (703) 620-4300 or visiting EyePlasticMD.com/request-an-appointment.
to chronic irritation of the eyes, conjunctivitis, and dryness, there’s an even more concerning aspect of FES: It’s strongly correlated with a condition called obstructive sleep apnea.
FLOPPY EYE SYNDROME SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Characterized by upper and lower eyelids that become loose and rubbery, FES causes the upper eyelids to flip over easily, especially while sleeping. If your lid is flipping over while you sleep, it’s not
Tomato and Watermelon Salad (Yes, Really!)
Inspired by BonAppetit.com
Bon Appétit magazine calls tomato and watermelon “soul mates,” and they’re right! This surprising gourmet salad will be a hit at your next barbecue.
A referral is the highest compliment our patients can give! Welcome to our new patients and thank you for the five referrals this month! Do you know someone who might need Dr. Scott’s care? Pass this newsletter along to them!
INGREDIENTS
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1 tsp peppercorns, coarsely crushed
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4 cups seedless watermelon, rind removed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes 2 heirloom tomatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 8 oz feta cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
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1 tsp coriander seeds, coarsely crushed 1/2 tsp cumin seeds 1/2 tsp turmeric 1/4 cup coconut oil
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Sea salt, to taste
“Be the person your dog thinks you are.” –George Eliot, a.k.a. Mary Ann Evans
DIRECTIONS
1. In a small saucepan, sauté spices and herbs in the coconut oil for 3 minutes over medium heat to create turmeric oil. Take the pan off of the heat, then let it cool. 2. Combine the watermelon, tomatoes, and feta on a large platter or in a bowl. Drizzle with cooled turmeric oil. Now, simply sprinkle with sea salt and enjoy!
3 (703) 620-4300
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