Do you ever find yourself waking up feeling like you haven't slept at all? Millions of us go to bed hoping for a good night's sleep, but we end up gasping for air throughout and this condition, known as sleep apnea, affects many people, so let's show you what you can do about it. 

Understanding If You Are Experiencing Sleep Apnea

There are many different things to consider at this point, for example, if you snore loudly and regularly, or you feel fatigued during the day, and potentially fall asleep during daytime hours. Additionally, if you have high blood pressure, this could be a sign you have sleep apnea.

Getting Checked Out

If you think you have sleep apnea, you need to see an expert. You need to explain your symptoms to either your doctor or a sleep medicine specialist. They will likely schedule you for a sleep test called a polysomnogram, which means you'll have to spend a night in a sleep lab. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea you will very likely be fitted for a device called a CPAP machine, short for "continuous positive airway pressure." Some people welcome the diagnosis and the use of a CPAP machine, however, it's important to be aware that there are some concerns with CPAP devices. If you ever have any doubts, you can consult a CPAP attorney for additional advice. 

Understanding the Impact of Sleep Apnea 

It's not just fatigue that occurs as a result of sleep apnea, but it can have a detrimental effect on your psychological health. If you experience excessive daytime sleepiness and it has an effect on your abilities to drive, you have to be aware of the long-term impacts. People with obstructive sleep apnea have a higher risk of depression and it can have an impact on other aspects of your life, including your relationships. Partners of people who have sleep apnea are also sleep deprived. While many people look at snoring as a minor nuisance, it's important to remember that snoring can be a significant cause of relationships breaking down. Many partners end up sleeping in separate bedrooms because of snoring, and for any parent who has experienced sleep problems, they know how serious it can be. It's amazing how many people get divorced over snoring. 

Why Treatments of Sleep Apnea Are So Important

Treating sleep apnea to make a massive difference to the quality of your life. It can reduce depression in some cases, and can reduce daytime sleepiness, and therefore other issues resulting from it, such as car accidents. It helps people with their energy levels, and they feel better with themselves. In addition to CPAP machines, other treatment methods can help, including oral appliances, which are designed to keep your throat open which can occasionally relieve mild obstructive sleep apnea. Additionally, there are other treatments including supplemental oxygen, and treatment for medical problems associated with sleep apnea, including heart disorders. There are also surgical options including implants, shrinking the tissue at the rear of the mouth, or removing tissue, known as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty.

Understanding Other Knock-On Effects of Sleep Apnea

As we've already established, sleep apnea can increase the likelihood of depression, hinder your concentration, and of course, make you feel more fatigued, but you can increase your risk of other diseases including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and can result in weight gain. Approximately half of all people who have diabetes also suffer from sleep apnea. This is because obesity promotes soft tissue development in the mouth and throat, causing the airways to narrow. Additionally, not having enough energy can mean you are naturally pursuing sugary treats as a way to give yourself more energy. This can result in type 2 diabetes and a whole host of knock-on effects.

Is it Time to Deal With Your Sleep Apnea? 

Sleep apnea may appear to be a minor nuisance for many people, but as you can see, it leaves you at risk for a whole host of other issues. Sleep is the most important thing we can do for our health and our happiness. It ensures our brain functions at its optimum, and when we feel refreshed after a good rest we can deal with anything life throws at us. Sleep apnea is the equivalent of someone shaking you every couple of minutes when you're trying to sleep. Naturally, you won't feel rested, and you shouldn’t put up with that. So, why should you put up with sleep apnea?