The Connection Between Sleep Apnea & ADHD
Sleep apnea and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two distinct medical conditions, but they often share common symptoms that can make it difficult to distinguish between the two. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes pauses in breathing during sleep, while ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Studies have found that individuals with sleep apnea are more likely to experience symptoms of ADHD. Fortunately, our Cedar City sleep specialist, Dr. Sage White, is dedicated to educating patients on the connection between sleep apnea and ADHD while offering safe and effective treatment options.
Shared Symptoms between Sleep Apnea & ADHD
Sleep apnea and ADHD share several common symptoms, including:
- Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Impaired memory
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Snoring
- Chronic headaches
Because there are many similarities between sleep apnea and ADHD, it’s important to seek assistance from a health professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Getting Your Diagnosis
The best way to get an accurate sleep apnea diagnosis is to visit our Cedar City sleep specialist. Depending on your symptoms, Dr. White may recommend a sleep study. A sleep study, also known as a polysomnography, is a diagnostic test that measures various body functions during sleep, such as brain waves, eye movements, and oxygen levels in the blood. This test is essential in diagnosing sleep apnea, as it helps identify the type and severity of sleep apnea and the best treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sleep apnea cause ADHD?
While there’s no direct link between sleep apnea and ADHD, the shared symptoms between the two conditions can make it difficult to diagnose ADHD in individuals with sleep apnea. A sleep study can help distinguish between the symptoms.
Can ADHD medication worsen sleep apnea symptoms?
Some ADHD medications, such as stimulants, can worsen sleep apnea symptoms. However, this doesn’t mean that individuals with both conditions cannot be treated with medication. It’s essential to discuss all medications and their potential side effects with a healthcare provider.
Can children have sleep apnea and ADHD?
Yes, both sleep apnea and ADHD can affect children. In fact, studies have found that children with ADHD are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea than children without ADHD. This connection is why undergoing a sleep study is crucial to target the correct treatment.
Schedule an Appointment With Dr. White
Sleep apnea and ADHD are two very serious medical conditions that share similar symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, individuals with either or both conditions can manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
If you experience any of the shared symptoms, schedule a consultation at our Cedar City office by giving us a call at (435) 267-0486 or filling out our online form to discuss the possibility of a sleep study test. Our sleep specialist is proud to serve Utah patients in Cedar City, Enoch, Hamiltons Fort, Kanarraville, Summit, and the surrounding areas.