Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is supposed to affect over 22 million people.  Many people are not sure what it is, so they actually do not know if they suffer from it.  Perhaps it is time to set out a little information, but keep in mind, if you suspect you or a loved one might have Apnea, please get the proper help.  Sleep Apnea if left untreated can lead to heart issues, diabetes, and even accidents.  The primary reason for this is that those who suffer do not sleep properly.  Sleep Apnea interrupts the sleep stages resulting in things like drowsy driving and affects the overall health.  It can also cause death when asleep.

Let's review the stages of sleep.  Stage 1 is that point when you might feel alert, but you are drowsy and your body is preparing for sleep.  Stage 2 is the early light sleep, during Stage 2 a loud noise will awaken you, however your brain waves are slowing.  Stage 3 is when Delta waves start, although there are still other brain waves present.  By Stage 4 Delta waves are almost exclusive, this is sometimes called deep sleep.  The last stage is REM.  During REM breathing becomes more rapid, irregular and shallow, eyes jerk rapidly and limb muscles are temporarily paralyzed. Brain waves during this stage increase to levels experienced when a person is awake. Also, heart rate increases, blood pressure rises, males develop erections and the body loses some of the ability to regulate its temperature. This is the time when most dreams occur, and, if awoken during REM sleep, a person can remember the dreams. Most people experience three to five intervals of REM sleep each night.

Sleep Apnea interferes with this healthy sleep cycle.  And that interruption will affect our memories and the ability of our body to recharge.  This is why health issues may develop.  REM in particular can affect learning and memory.  Some researchers have found a link between obesity and poor sleep.  Students may not be able to learn as easily.

In 1900 nearly all Americans slept 9 hours each night.  Today about 30% sleep 6 hours per night.  If you add sleep apnea to the mix, many more are not getting proper sleep.  This runs the risk of massive proportions.  Which is why we need to get a handle on Sleep Apnea.

It is very treatable.  In mild cases something as simple as a better bed may help.  Sleeping slightly elevated may help mild cases.  For the worst cases a doctor might prescribe a C-PAP machine to keep air flowing into the lungs.  We would like to suggest that even in those cases, a good bed or elevation might help as well.  There are Sleep Clinics popping up every day, and if you suspect Sleep Apnea, check with your doctor, doctors can be your best resource.  Do not ignore the symptoms. 

Sleep Well!