Short-sighted people sleep worse than those with normal vision, a study has found.

Researchers from Flinders University in Australia revealed that people with myopia get poorer quality sleep than those with normal vision due to delayed circadian rhythms lower production of melatonin - the hormone responsible for regulating shuteye.

The team studied university students in their 20s and analysis revealed that those with myopia had significantly lower outputs of melatonin in their saliva and urine compared to those with good eyesight.

Dr Ranjay Chakraborty, who led the study, said: "Disruptions in circadian rhythms and sleep due to the advent of artificial light and the use of light-emitting electronic devices for reading and entertainment has become a recognised health concern in several fields, but its impact on eye health has not been studied extensively.

"These findings provide important evidence that optimal sleep and circadian rhythms are not only essential for general health, but also for good vision."

The researchers hope that their findings will aid the early diagnosis and treatment of myopia in children.

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