How Do Sleep Breathing Disorders Affect Focus?
Attention and focus-related disorders seem to be on the rise. Technological innovations, social media, and dependence on mobile devices are the usual suspects but our sleeping health could be another. Sleep breathing disorders affect focus in several ways and can be particularly dangerous for younger children that are still developing.
Sleep Breathing Disorder
Sleep breathing disorder (SBD) is a condition that can affect a person’s airway while they sleep. As a result, these disruptions can create abnormal breathing patterns during sleep. Some of the potential causes of breathing disruption are a compromised airway or an underdeveloped jaw.
How Does SBD Impact Attention?
SBD routinely causes sleep deprivation. Inadequate oxygen absorption during sleep can lead to abnormal sleep-wake patterns, the inability to reach the deeper more restorative sleep cycles, and poorer sleep overall. Less sleep, especially once it gets to the level of sleep deprivation, leads to:
- Lower alertness
- Decreased concentration
- Likelihood of confusion
- Reduced ability to perform everyday tasks
- Inability to do things that require complex thought and logical reasoning
- Impaired judgment
In addition to the ways SBD impacts attention directly, it can also lead to behavioral side effects which can further complicate the ability to focus such as:
- Depression
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Attention-deficit
- Poor grades
- Behavioral issues
Early Diagnosis and Intervention
Underdeveloped jaws and compromised airways are common contributors to sleep breathing disorders like sleep apnea. The best treatment options for conditions like sleep apnea always begin with early diagnosis.
One of the most effective treatment options offered at Balance Epigenetic Orthodontics is Oral Appliance Therapy. Devices like the MicrO2 Sleep Device, contribute to healthier airways by making more room for the tongue so that it doesn’t block the airway while a person sleeps.
Contact Balance Epigenetic Orthodontics Today
If you live near Lynnwood, WA, and would like to learn more about sleep apnea treatment options, contact Dr. Buck by calling our office at (425) 329-4682 or fill out our contact form.
