There are many causes of chronic fatigue. One common one is sleep apnea, a condition that affects millions of people across the world. Sleep apnea can keep you from getting proper rest at night, leading to depleted energy levels. If you’re a resident of Bend, Oregon – a town known for its countless outdoor activities – it’s very important to identify and address the issue of sleep apnea so you can continue to live an active lifestyle.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by abnormal pauses in breathing or periods of low breathing during sleep. These pauses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, and can happen multiple times per hour.
There are three main types of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common, characterized by a physical blockage of airflow through the nose or mouth. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is less common and occurs when the brain does not send the necessary signals to the muscles that control breathing. Complex sleep apnea syndrome (also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea) is the least common and is a combination of both OSA and CSA.
What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Some people with sleep apnea are completely unaware that they have it. Others may experience the following symptoms:
Chronic Fatigue: Feeling tired and sleepy during the day is one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea. It can be so severe to interfere with your daily activities.
Loud Snoring: Loud snoring is often one of the first signs of OSA. This loud snoring may be punctuated by periods of silence as airway obstruction leads to disrupted sleep.
Gasping or choking: Some people with sleep apnea may exhibit gasping or choking due to interruptions in breathing during the night.
Morning Headaches: Headaches are often reported by people with sleep apnea upon waking.
Difficulty Concentrating: Chronic sleep deprivation can affect mental alertness and cognitive function, making it hard to concentrate during the day.
What Are the Health Risks of Sleep Apnea?
If left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to various health issues, including:
High blood pressure: OSA can cause your body to release adrenaline and other stress hormones that raise blood pressure.
Heart disease: OSA is also associated with an increased risk of stroke and heart attack.
Type 2 diabetes: OSA keeps the body from using insulin properly, leading to higher blood sugar levels.
Adult asthma: There is evidence to suggest that OSA can contribute to the development of adult-onset asthma.
Depression: Chronic sleep deprivation due to OSA can also lead to depression.
How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed and Treated?
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional as soon as possible so that you can receive a proper diagnosis. Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study, where a series of tests are performed during a night of sleep in a sleep lab.
Treatment for sleep apnea typically involves lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, and sleeping on your side rather than your back. In some cases, therapy such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) may be prescribed to help keep the upper airway open.
Can Sleep Apnea Have an Effect on Physical Activities?
For residents of Bend who enjoy an active lifestyle, the importance of getting a good night’s sleep without interruptions is essential. Sleep deprivation can affect physical performance, making it harder to maximize energy levels to take advantage of the opportunities provided by living in an outdoor wonderland like Bend. A good night’s sleep is important for muscle recovery, mental focus, and overall well-being, allowing you to participate in activities such as skiing, biking, and hiking for maximum enjoyment.
Conclusion
Sleep apnea can significantly impact your quality of life, including your ability to lead an active lifestyle in Bend. Fortunately, with early detection and the right treatment, you can get back to enjoying all that Bend has to offer. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of sleep apnea, make an appointment with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Getting a good night’s sleep is the best way to maximize your enjoyment of Bend’s diverse array of outdoor activities.