Sleep Deprivation Can Hit Hard
A restless night of tossing and turning can leave you feeling fatigued and irritable the next morning. It becomes harder to function, and carrying out the smallest tasks seems like a challenge.
On average, each person needs seven to nine hours of sleep each night to perform at their full potential. Losing sleep can test your patience, increase your risk of accidents, and eventually lead to more serious repercussions for your health.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, these challenges become an everyday battle. Affecting nearly 22 million Americans, sleep apnea is a common disorder that causes you to frequently wake up each night due to a blockage in your airway. If left untreated, this sleep disorder can have devastating effects on your physical and mental health.
How Sleep Apnea Impacts Your Brain
Waking up multiple times a night disrupts your REM sleep cycle, or when your brain converts memories and regulates emotions, in addition to other functions. Though small, this disturbance can greatly impact your health, especially if you suffer from sleep apnea.
This sleep disorder causes inconsistent sleep patterns which can make everyday tasks more difficult. Lack of sleep can also impair your work ethic, which can lead to an increased risk of unemployment.
The Connection Between Mental Health & Sleep Apnea
As mentioned earlier, interruptions in your sleep cycle causes your brain to undergo an imbalance of chemicals. This triggers a range of emotions and can result in mental health issues.
Unfortunately, those with sleep apnea face a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. If you experience symptoms of sleep apnea and live with a mental health disorder, treatment for sleep apnea can have a beneficial impact on your overall well-being.
Improve Your Quality of Life Today
Tired of feeling burned out? Sleep apnea treatment can be the next step towards getting a better night’s sleep. Contact our offices at Cornerstone Dental at 905-355-7488 or Oak Park Dental at 905-257-3368 to schedule a consultation.