Sleepless in Worthington … Is My Fatigue from Sleep Apnea?

Do you find yourself still feeling tired throughout the day despite sleeping 7 to 8 hours at night? You may attribute it to stress from work or maybe even a bad mattress; however, the underlying cause could be something you had never expected. A sleep disorder, known as obstructive sleep apnea, can lead to daytime fatigue and an array of other complications when left untreated. If you have noticed that your sleep quality is declining, you may need treatment for sleep apnea in Worthington.

Why Am I So Tired?

Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes numerous interruptions in breathing throughout the night as the airways become narrowed due to the collapsing of soft tissues in the throat. As this occurs, it creates an obstruction that limits oxygen levels in the body. Often, it is believed that the only symptoms involve chronic snoring, but this is not the case. It can cause a magnitude of issues, such as morning time headaches, and cardiovascular disease. However, you will start to notice the most changes in your quality of life.

The pauses in breathing will cause your sleep quality to decline as you can find yourself waking frequently coughing, choking, or gasping for air. As the interruptions continue to occur, you will not feel rested in the morning, leading to daytime fatigue. This may cause you to develop depression or irritability. However, as time goes on, sleep deprivation can set in.

As sleep deprivation occurs, you will notice several changes in your daily life. Not only will you be tired, but you can begin to have trouble concentrating and you may develop mood swings. Your cognitive abilities will also start to decline, increasing your risk for workplace and auto accidents.

Over time, your quality of life will start to suffer, as well as your health. Untreated sleep apnea causes strain on your heart, resulting in cardiovascular disease. This increases your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Can I Restore My Quality of Life?

Although the complications of the disorder are quite diverse, it is easily treatable. After undergoing a sleep study for a diagnosis, you may be prescribed a treatment plan that includes the use of a C-PAP machine. The machine delivers a steady stream of air through a mask that is worn over the nose to keep the airways open.

Dr. LJ Adam in Worthington offers an alternative option to the C-PAP, since many who suffer from sleep apnea, find the mask uncomfortable to wear. As someone who has suffered from sleep apnea himself, Dr. LJ often recommends that his patients try using an oral appliance. This custom-fit device repositions the jaw forward to prevent the air passages from collapsing. No mask required.

Where Can I Get Treatment?

If you are always feeling tired, it is time to see if there is an underlying disorder causing your fatigue. Contact your physician to schedule a sleep study.

About Dr. Lawrence J. Adam

For the past 12 years, Dr. LJ Adam has been improving smiles in the area. In addition to comprehensive dental care, he also provides solutions to treat sleep apnea. If you have any questions about the disorder, contact his office today to schedule a consultation.