Over 22 million Americans are suffering from some form of sleep apnea. New research shows that failing to receive the quality sleep needed can lead to a host of problems, but is depression one of them? As you continue reading, your local dentist goes in-depth to provide an answer by explaining what sleep apnea in Lawton is as well as discussing the possible side effects. Armed with the right information, you’ll then be able to seek the care you need so you can flourish!
What is Sleep Apnea?
The term sleep apnea refers to frequent lapses in breathing that can occur several times throughout the night. Because your body has built-in safety responses, your brain will send a distress signal through your nervous system that causes you to awaken. After this happens dozens and, sometimes, hundreds of times throughout a normal sleep cycle, you can be left at a major deficit in several areas.
Since the flare-ups happen while you’re asleep, you may not be aware that you have the problem. Therefore, if you’re experiencing daytime lethargy, you should ask your partner or family member if he or she has noticed any loud snoring, gasping sounds or pauses in breathing while you sleep.
Additionally, you should be on the lookout for any of the following other symptoms:
- Irritability
- Impotence
- Bed-wetting
- Morning headaches
- Inability to concentrate
- Morning throat soreness
While these are all troubling warning signs, there still remains another serious issue that can arise from untreated sleep apnea.
The Connection Between Sleep Apnea and Depression
The human body relies on a natural and internal clock, called the circadian rhythm. When it’s disrupted, it can cause a hormonal imbalance, a result of which can be depression. The problem becomes complicated, though, as people who have a history of depression have been found to be five times more likely to suffer from a sleep breathing disorder like sleep apnea.
One of the contributing factors is believed to be the prescription of antidepressants. A disturbing side effect that has been discovered is a condition called REM (rapid eye movement) behavior disorder, which is when people have violent dreams and attempt to act them out while they’re sleeping.
Another challenge that arises from the use of antidepressants that flood the system with serotonin is that it can suppress the body’s natural production of melatonin, the nighttime hormone that induces sleep.
The Importance of Receiving Sleep Apnea Therapy
One of the keys to experiencing some relief is to receive sleep apnea treatment in Lawton. After being tested to confirm you have sleep apnea, your dentist can provide you with the perfect oral appliance to help keep your airway open and to prevent any lapses in breathing that could lead to sleep interruption and increased instances of depression. If you suspect you’re suffering from sleep apnea, reach out to your local dentist to schedule a visit today.
About the Author
Dr. David J. Drummond earned his dental degree from Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago. He has since gone on to provide nearly 40 years of expert and compassionate dentistry. Dr. Drummond helps patients get the rest they desperately need at Stop Snoring Lawton, and he can be reached for more information through his website.