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Understanding the Psychological Issues Sleep Apnea Can Cause

By: Rudy Watkins. There are many medical problems associated with sleep apnea as well as some psychological ones. If the normal, constant flow of oxygen is interrupted during sleep, the brain is deprived of this essential element and it can cause crippling effects. Recognizing and understanding the psychological symptoms that can occur can lead to treatment and relief.

Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous?

Although sleep apnea is a very common disorder, many people may be affected by it but not know they have it. Basically, this condition causes a person to stop breathing during sleep. Throat muscles that relax too much and narrow the airways or even close the opening for a short time can cause this. The tongue can also fall back across the airway during sleep and this will affect breathing.

In the end, the same result happens: the brain losses much needed oxygen which can lead to other problems. Snoring can also be present in a person with sleep apnea. This could be the brain alerting the sleeper that the airway is blocked. The person may wake from the sound of their snoring and then change their sleeping position. You may decrease the episodes by sleeping on your side instead of your back.

Psychological Aspects of Sleep Apnea

There can be many physical problems resulting from sleep apnea but the psychological ones are a little harder to recognize and diagnose. The first thing noticed is that the person doesnt get a peaceful nights sleep. A certain amount of sleep is required for the bodys major organs to repair and recharge right down to cellular level.

If this doesn't happen, the person will feel exhausted in the morning. Daytime drowsiness is present, and this overpowering desire to sleep will stay with the person throughout the day. This will cause frustration and irritability, as the person needs to stay awake to perform their daily tasks. Problems with concentration and memory loss are also common. All of these emotions will add up and contribute to a growing sense of depression. The person may even feel like they are losing their mind, as their ability to think clearly is diminished.

They may only want to spend their day in bed to catch up on the rest they think they need but in reality what they should be doing is getting the treatment for their sleep disorder. In extreme cases, thoughts of suicide may come from sleep apnea. The quality and purpose of ones life will decline if there is oxygen deprivation night after night. Anti-depressant drugs are non effective in these situations as the medical condition of sleep apnea needs to be diagnosed and treated first.

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

Are you having difficulty finding effective sleep apnea cures? Check out the Apnea Guide website for helpful tips and advice about getting rid of a sleep apnea problem and finally getting a good night's sleep again.

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