Beyond Snoring: How Sleep Apnea Impacts Your Daily Life

Nearly 30 million Americans have sleep apnea. But almost 24 million among them go undiagnosed and get no treatment to improve their situation. But sleep apnea does more than just cause loud snoring. It interrupts every sphere of one’s life. The repeated breathing troubles during sleep can reduce one’s blood oxygen levels and make them prone to develop several health complications. This constant cycle of wake-ups also prevents the sufferer from enjoying deep, restful sleep. People with sleep apnea in Rocklin wake up feeling exhausted despite spending hours in bed. Let’s check out why on-time assistance of a sleep dentist is crucial: 

Lack of quality sleep affects daily activities

• Fatigue and sleepiness make it difficult to remain awake during the day, when people are the most active
• Lack of sleep leads to memory problems, which affect attention and decision-making
• Irritability and mood swings damage relationships
• Lack of oxygen throughout the night causes morning headaches
• Sleep disturbances also slow down one’s reaction times, leading to higher risks of workplace accidents

Greater Risk of Heart Disease

Doctors always recommend 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep at night. Sound sleep protects you from complex heart-related concerns. Sleep apnea affects one’s cardiovascular health and increases the risk of developing coronary artery disease, heart failure, and high-blood pressure. With each cessation of breathing, oxygen levels plummet, and stress signals cause strain in blood vessels and heart muscles. 

Health consequences include:

• Elevated blood pressure due to fluctuating oxygen levels
• Irregular rhythms associated with cardiac stress
• Increased stroke risk resulting from blood circulation problems
• Formation of heart disease due to years of strain

Weight Gain and Metabolism Problems

A report published by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that people with sleep problems often struggle more to lose weight and suffer from unhealthy food cravings. Poor slumber interferes with hunger hormones, making cravings bigger, while workout energy is almost non-existent.

Metabolic impact

• Increases levels of ghrelin, which stimulates appetite.
• Decreases leptin levels which attenuate signals for fullness.
• Insulin resistance, which increases the threat of type 2 diabetes
• Lowers energy levels, which leads to lower rates of exercise.

Mental Health Issues

Sleep loss impacts mental health. People who have sleep apnea in Rocklin often suffer from anxiety, depression, and mood instability.

Psychological consequences:

• Increased stress levels with poor sleep quality
• Increased anxiety through perpetual fatigue
• Depression caused by a chemical imbalance from lack of sleep
• No motivation due to chronic exhaustion.

Impaired Workplace Performance

Sleep apnea makes professional life challenging. Lack of concentration and slow reaction times due to interrupted sleep cycle impair productivity and heighten the risk of errors.

Workplace effects:

• Reduced concentration hampers task achievement.
• Forgetfulness leads to delayed deadlines.
• Decreased problem-solving ability impairs performance.
• Increased absenteeism due to chronic fatigue.

Struggles in Relationships

Loud snoring and sleepless nights impact partners. Sleep apnea tends to disturb both the sufferers and their loved ones, causing frustration and resentment.

Impact on relationships:

• Sleep disturbance makes partners drowsy.
• Irritability causes conflicts.
• Decreased intimacy due to low energy.
• Increased stress from sleep disturbances.

Seeking Treatment for Improved Health

Sleep apnea, if ignored, can worsen health in the long run. Therapies such as CPAP therapy, lifestyle modification, and snoring appliances enhance sleep and quality of life.

Treatment options:

• CPAP machines help you maintain open airways
• Oral appliances shift jaw position for improved breathing during sleep
• Weight management minimizes symptoms

Sleep apnea impacts energy, health, and relationships. Identifying and treating the symptoms can return restful sleep and enhance quality of life. If you or someone you love has symptoms, consult a sleep dentist in Rocklin today.