Overcoming the Mental Health Challenges of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by recurrent pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses in breathing, called apneas, can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes and can occur several times an hour. There’s also evidence to suggest that sleep apnea can have a negative impact on mental health.
People with sleep apnea may experience symptoms such as irritability, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. These symptoms can lead to problems with social relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. Additionally, sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of developing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
At Southern Utah Sleep and TMJ Center, our Cedar City dentist Dr. Sage White is committed to improving the lives of patients by providing quality sleep apnea care. We’re proud to serve Utah patients in Enoch, Hamiltons Fort, Kanarraville, Summit, and the surrounding areas. Schedule a consultation with Dr. White by giving us a call at (435) 267-0486 or contact us online.
The Cognitive Effects of Sleep Deprivation
When you don’t get enough sleep, your brain doesn’t function as well as it should. This can lead to a number of problems, including:
Difficulty concentrating
Lack of sleep can make it hard to focus and pay attention, which can make it difficult to perform tasks that require concentration and decision-making skills. With a full night’s rest, your brain has time to reset and prepare for the next day.
Memory problems
Sleep helps to consolidate memories and process new information. Without enough sleep, it can be harder to learn new things and remember important details. Regardless of age, memory loss can affect anyone who isn’t getting a sufficient amount of sleep.
Increased risk of accidents
Lack of sleep can affect your coordination and reaction time, making you more likely to have accidents. You’re more likely to lose concentration and get into a car accident when you’re sleep deprived.
Mood changes
A lack of sleep can also affect your mood, leading to irritability, anxiety, and even depression. Your peers may notice a difference in your personality and actions throughout the day. You may not feel like your normal self when you’re lacking sleep.
Sleep Apnea Treatment May Improve Your Mental Health
Sleep apnea treatment, such as the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), oral appliance therapy, or lifestyle changes like weight loss, can help to improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of mental health problems. Dr. White offers both CPAP treatment and oral appliance therapy to help patients improve their quality of sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sleep apnea cause anxiety and depression?
There is evidence to suggest that sleep apnea may be associated with an increased risk of developing anxiety and depression. The symptoms of sleep apnea, such as difficulty sleeping and feeling tired during the day, can also contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed by a sleep specialist or dentist, who will review the patient’s medical history, conduct a physical exam, and may order a sleep study. A sleep study, also called a polysomnogram, is a test that measures brain activity, eye movement, and other bodily functions during sleep.
What causes sleep apnea?
There are several factors that can contribute to sleep apnea, including obesity, age, family history, and smoking. Sleep apnea can also be caused by structural abnormalities in the airway, such as a small jaw or large tonsils.
Can sleep apnea be cured?
In many cases, sleep apnea can be managed effectively with treatment. However, it’s not necessarily a “curable” condition. Some people may need to use treatment for the rest of their lives to manage their sleep apnea. It’s important to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.
Schedule Your Appointment With Dr. White
If your mental health is suffering due to sleep deprivation, give our Cedar City office a call at (435) 267-0486 to schedule a consultation with Dr. White. Our experienced sleep dentist is trained to treat obstructive sleep apnea and can help Utah patients get the sleep they deserve.