Can my Lack of Energy be Due to My Sleep Apnea?

It’s natural for people to feel tired at the end of the day, but excessive fatigue or an unexplained lack of energy can – and should – become a concern, especially if you are not getting the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep per night. For instance, narcolepsy and insomnia can contribute to it. However, one condition that you shouldn’t rule out when it comes to daytime fatigue is obstructive sleep apnea.

As you may already know, sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by regular lapses in breathing as one sleeps. It’s a common disorder, as it’s estimated that up to 20 million Americans experience it, though it’s not always the easiest disorder to diagnose. That’s why medical professionals encourage people to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms associated with it – and one of these signs just so happens to be excessive daytime fatigue or drowsiness.

Because sleep apnea is characterized by frequent lapses in breathing, there are disturbances while you sleep – even if you don’t realize it. When sleep is disturbed, so is the body’s ability to get that much-needed rejuvenating sleep. This can result in fatigue and a lack of daytime energy.

Is Sleep Apnea the Culprit?

Before you jump to conclusions, it’s important to first verify that sleep apnea is the true culprit behind your lack of daytime energy. While this is best done by having your doctor conduct a sleep study to properly diagnose sleep apnea, there are a few other signs you should be looking for first. These include:

  • Ruling out other factors: For instance, people suffering from depression or anxiety may experience similar fatigue.
  • Memory issues: Another big sign of sleep apnea is unexplained memory issues, especially if you’ve otherwise had a terrific memory. When your sleep patterns are interrupted, so is the brain’s ability to retain information.
  • Other signs: If you share a bed with your spouse, inform them of what you think is going on and ask them to pass along any unusual behavior. This might include loud snoring, audible gasps, choking or other sounds that signify you catching your breath. You should also note the presence of any morning headaches or insomnia.

The good news is that if it is sleep apnea that is behind your fatigue issues, it’s an easy fix. While some cases of sleep apnea can be resolved via lifestyle adjustments, others can conveniently manage the sleep disorder by wearing a CPAP device at night, which keeps air flowing to prevent blockages. A dental splint is also an option for some patients, as such apparatuses can help keep the jaw forward and prevent the throat from relaxing.

For more information on the signs, symptoms and treatment methods for sleep apnea, contact us today.