Sleep Apnea and Memory Loss: The Hidden Connection
Obstructive sleep apnea is known for causing snoring and sleep problems, but its impact extends beyond a restless night. At EOS Sleep in Philadelphia, PA, we want to shed light on an often-overlooked companion of untreated sleep apnea: memory loss. Your sleep quality might be to blame if you've been struggling with forgetfulness or cognitive difficulties.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Brain
Sleep apnea occurs when the muscles controlling your tongue and soft palate relax excessively while sleeping. This narrows or blocks your airway, briefly stopping your breathing. With sleep apnea, breathing interruptions can happen up to 30 times every hour throughout the night. Every time you stop breathing, no matter how briefly, it can deprive your brain of oxygen.
People with sleep apnea often experience symptoms such as:
- Snoring
- Daytime drowsiness
- Choking during the night
- Headaches upon awakening
- Low libido
- Anxiety
- Depression
Over time, the lack of oxygen and poor-quality sleep may harm your brain's ability to function properly, potentially leading to memory and concentration problems.
The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Cognitive Decline
The sleep apnea-cognitive decline connection grows clearer all the time. A groundbreaking study, presented at the American Academy of Neurology's annual meeting, showed a stark difference in cognitive decline between people with sleep apnea symptoms and those without.
People with sleep apnea symptoms were about 50% more likely to have cognitive problems, including memory loss, than their counterparts without symptoms. Research continues to determine whether there's a cause-and-effect relationship between sleep apnea and memory loss or whether the two occur together because of other medical conditions.
Although the study's results may seem dire for people with sleep apnea, there's also good news. Sleep apnea screening, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment may help prevent or slow down this cognitive decline. Treatment can help protect your health now and in the future. Minimally invasive therapies such as oral appliances can help improve your sleep quality and ensure your brain receives the oxygen it needs. This can help protect your memory and overall cognitive function in the long term.
Keep Your Memories: Book a Consultation in Philadelphia, PA
Don't let sleep apnea rob you of your precious memories. At EOS Sleep in Philadelphia, PA, we're here to help you take control of your sleep and protect your cognitive health. Call us today at 215-241-0700 or connect with our team online for help now.