Sleep Disorders Affect More Than Sleep

Sleep is one of the most critical functions of the human body. Sleep is so essential that no one has gone without it for longer than 11 days. This puts sleep just ahead of food, which we can go without in some cases for up to close to 2 months. Adequate sleep allows our bodies to recharge, repair, and re-energize. Without proper sleep, like in cases of sleep apnea, the body can face several negative effects because sleep disorders affect more than sleep.

Effects of Sleep Disorders

The category of sleep disorders includes conditions such as insomnia, narcolepsy, and sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is particularly dangerous in that it has been linked to an increased risk of many other dangerous health conditions such as:

• Fatigue
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Metabolic syndrome

Daytime Fatigue

Repeated awakening at night, getting less than the required amount of sleep at night, and not reaching deeper stages in the sleep cycle are all major contributors to daytime fatigue. Sleep apnea is one of the more dangerous sleep conditions associated with daytime fatigue because people can unknowingly suffer without seeking treatment.

Heart Disease

Sleep disorders have also been linked to heart disease. Low blood oxygen levels and high blood pressure are two of the most common side effects of sleep disorders. Because sleep allows our bodies to recover and repair. These irregularities throw off the typical function of the heart and lead to other dangerous heart diseases. 

Diabetes

Inconsistent sleep patterns can diminish the body’s ability to process insulin. The maintenance that sleep provides for our metabolism is severely depleted without rest. Eventually, the reduced ability to process insulin can lead to insulin resistance: diabetes.

Metabolic Syndrome

Abnormal sleep patterns like sleep apnea can also affect the body’s metabolism. High cholesterol, high blood sugar, and increased waist circumference are all symptoms of sleep disorders that relate to metabolic syndrome.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

The biggest danger to people suffering from sleep disorders like sleep apnea is not being diagnosed early. To learn whether you suffer from a sleep disorder like sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with Dr. Buck by calling our office at (425) 329-4682 or fill out our contact form.