sleep apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

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By Daniel Davis, MD | Internal Medicine

Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious condition that affects millions of Americans. This condition increases risks for things like car accidents and strokes, and it can make other medical conditions worse. Additionally, sleep apnea can have a significant impact on mental health, contributing to issues such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. Learn more about the condition, symptoms, how to get screened, treatments, and more.

What are the Symptoms?

It can be hard to diagnose sleep apnea because there is a long list of symptoms, and some aren’t very noticeable.

Common symptoms include:

  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Loud snoring at night
  • Pauses in breathing with gasping or choking sounds
  • Morning headaches
  • Brain fog
  • Mood problems
  • Frequent urination at night
  • Insomnia
  • Not feeling rested even after sleeping all night.

Some people with the condition may have minimal or no symptoms at all.

How Does Sleep Apnea Impact Mental Health?

Sleep apnea can significantly affect mental health. In fact, a 2017 study showed a direct link between having sleep apnea and increased odds of having a mental health issue.

Chronic sleep deprivation and interrupted sleep patterns can lead to mood disturbances, including increased irritability and depression. Cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making can also be impaired. Anxiety and stress levels may rise due to the physical strain and health concerns associated with sleep apnea.

What are the Risks From Having Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is associated with a very long list of medical problems. Some of the most serious are increased risk of stroke, heart attack, worsening hypertension, congestive heart failure, heart arrhythmias, and can cause sexual problems. All of these symptoms can significantly interfere with your sense of satisfaction, security, and mental well-being.

How is Sleep Apnea Treated?

The good news is that there are effective ways to treat sleep apnea. The most common treatment is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. CPAP machines are a mask attached to a machine that provides pressure to prevent airway obstructions. A CPAP can work wonders, but some individuals need time to adjust.

CPAP is the best treatment, but if patients cannot adapt to it, other, less effective treatments like dental devices and surgical procedures can be options. Behavioral and diet changes can also improve sleep apnea.

If you have questions about sleep apnea or think you or a loved one may be suffering from this condition, consider talking to your medical provider.