Does having obstructive sleep apnea increase my risk for Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, leading to low oxygen levels. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss. Both conditions share underlying mechanisms like oxidative stress and inflammation. Research suggests that OSA may raise the risk of developing AMD, particularly the more severe neovascular (wet) form, but the link is not fully settled.
What the research says
A large meta-analysis of 8 studies involving over 3.5 million people found that OSA is associated with higher odds of AMD overall 18. However, a 2024 cross-sectional study of 225 participants did not find a link between mild or moderate-to-severe OSA and AMD in general, but it did find that moderate-to-severe OSA was strongly linked to neovascular AMD (the wet form), with an odds ratio of 6.35 9. Another 2023 case-control study found that people already diagnosed with OSA and receiving treatment had a higher likelihood of having AMD with reticular pseudodrusen (a high-risk subtype) 10. These findings suggest that the relationship may depend on the severity of OSA and the specific type of AMD. The evidence is not completely consistent, so more research is needed.
What to ask your doctor
- Should I be screened for sleep apnea if I have AMD or risk factors for it?
- Could treating my sleep apnea lower my risk of developing wet AMD?
- Are there any specific eye exams I should have if I have sleep apnea?
- How do my other risk factors, like smoking or age, interact with sleep apnea for AMD risk?
- What symptoms of sleep apnea should I watch for, and when should I consider a sleep study?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Ophthalmology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.