Do you have problems with your memory and have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea? Research studies suggest that there are strong links between this sleep disorder and possible development of memory problems. This has become especially a topic of interest for those who are aging, as it compounds the effects of normal age-related memory decline. In this article, we will describe what sleep apnea is and its prevalence, signs of memory problems related to Sleep Apnea, and suggested treatment options.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a medical condition that is broadly referred to as a ‘breathing-related’ disorder. Individuals who have sleep apnea will often experience pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while they are sleeping. This can cause sleep disturbances and can also create an insufficient supply of oxygen and can lead to other health related symptoms such as:
- Obesity, which tends to be a risk factor for the development of sleep apnea.
- Daytime fatigue, which can lead to problems performing routine daily tasks.
- Increased blood pressure due to the disruption of normal breathing patterns.
Prevalence of Sleep Apnea and its impact
Sleep Apnea is generally relatively common in the young and old populations. Men tend to be more affected than women and the severity of the disease will depend on the individual. In studies it is also known as a potentially serious sleep disorder; someone with sleep apnea may be 24 times more likely to be in a car crash than someone who is not. Moreover, it has been well-established the risk of cardiovascular diseases in those who have untreated sleep apnea.
Symptoms and Effects of Sleep Apnea on Memory
Those who have unmanaged sleep apnea may note that they are experiencing memory problems. This can include,
- Difficulty concentrating
- Frequent forgetting of tasks and appointments
- Short term memory problems – for example, not remembering what someone told them just a few minutes ago
- Difficulty learning new information
Treatment options for Memory Loss and Sleep Apnea
Once someone has diagnosed with sleep apnea, there are a number of treatment options that they may discuss with their healthcare provider:
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which delivers a constant pressure of air to the person’s airways to reduce snoring and other symptoms of sleep apnea.
- Oral appliance therapy, which involves the use of a device that fits into the mouth and keeps the person’s throat open while they sleep.
- Surgical options, which may be used in those with severe obstructive sleep apnea.
In addition, there is a growing body of evidence which suggests that participating moderate cardiovascular exercise can help to alleviate sleep apnea symptoms and improve overall health.
Conclusion
In recent years, research studies have indicated that there is a strong link between sleep apnea and the development of cognitive deficits, specifically issues with memory. Since sleep apnea is a relatively common disorder, especially in older adults, it is important to be evaluated for the condition if you are experiencing signs of sleep disorders. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and have noted cognitive problems, it is important to discuss management options with a healthcare professional. By getting the right diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to prevent the negative effects of sleep apnea on memory and other general health problems.