There are many reasons why you might experience a general lack of energy each day. If you’re sick, then your immune system is taking all of your energy. If you’re chronically ill, then that energy drain could become worse. By contrast, a lack of sleep might seem minor, but in some cases, you may not realize that you aren’t sleeping enough. For instance, if you have sleep apnea, then you can grow increasingly more tired all the time and never know why until your dentist diagnoses it.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea describes a condition where your airway becomes blocked by mouth and throat tissues. These tissues may be abnormally sized or overly relaxed, and as you sleep, they collapse into your airway. Without oxygen, your body panics, waking up and clearing the airway so you can breathe again. You don’t usually rouse from consciousness, but because your mind and body have to consciously work, your sleep cycle is still interrupted. As your body settles down again, the tissues will once again collapse into the airway, and this cycle can continue for hundreds of repetitions before the night is over.
Fatigue and Other Daytime Effects
Generally, the two biggest threats sleep apnea poses to your health are lack of sleep and lack of oxygen. Even if the loud snoring episodes or cessation of breathing don’t fully wake you, they stop you from resting properly, which can lead to daytime exhaustion and other symptoms, including:
- Increased irritability
- Difficulty concentrating, even on small tasks
- Trouble remembering things
- Emotional instability/mood swings
- Depression, anxiety, and heightened stress
- And more
Sleep Better and More Peacefully with Sleep Apnea Treatment
Many patients with sleep apnea aren’t aware of their nighttime episodes, but if you feel sleep deprived, then it could be just as strong a sign that you need sleep apnea treatment. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Syosset Dental in Syosset, NY today at 516-433-2211 or 516-921-1678.
