Interrelationship Between Sleep Disorders and Early Presbyopia: Ayurvedic Insights into Preventive Care

Abstract

Presbyopia, traditionally considered an inevitable consequence of aging, is now increasingly observed in younger individuals, driven by modern lifestyle stressors such as screen overuse, psychological strain, and irregular sleeping patterns. Ayurveda echoes these findings, identifying Swapna Viparyaya (irregular sleeping pattern) as a primary Nidana (causative factor) Netra Roga (ocular disorders). Objective: To explore the connection between poor sleep quality and early-onset presbyopia through an integrative- merging modern ocular physiology with Ayurvedic preventive strategies. Methods: This analysis was conducted through classical Ayurvedic texts like Charak Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya. Both contemporary clinical insights and historical perspectives from traditional medicine were examined to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Discussion: Scientific evidence underscores the role of circadian rhythms in regulating the redox state of the lens, with key elements such as Bmal1 gene expression, aqueous humour secretion, and glutathione transport closely linked to sleep-wake cycles. Sleep deprivation leads to impaired blood flow, oxidative stress, and cellular degeneration in ocular tissues. Ayurveda offers neuro-restorative therapies- Shirodhara, Abhyanga, and Shiropich- which help regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, improve melatonin synthesis. When combined with good sleep hygiene practices, these interventions promote redox homeostasis and delay presbyopic changes. Conclusion: Both modern science and Ayurvedic principles recognize poor sleep quality as one of the causative factors for pre onset of presbyopia. Integrating sleep hygiene with classical Ayurvedic regime for quality sleep presents a holistic and evidence-aligned approach to delay the onset of presbyopia. This integrative model holds global relevance in preventive ophthalmology.