The root cause of both insomnia and sleep apnea is debated, but it's generally considered that people with one are more likely to develop the other. Regardless of their causes, both insomnia and sleep apnea affects millions of people. For more information, read on to learn the symptoms and causes of each condition. If you have been experiencing multiple waking periods during the night, you may have sleep apnea.
Treatment options
Insomnia and sleep apnea often co-occur. While there are no clear links between the two conditions, the overlap between their symptoms can pose significant diagnostic and treatment challenges. In addition, these two disorders share reciprocally adverse pathogenetic mechanisms. While these two disorders are often regarded separately, their close connection has led to a broader range of treatment options. A multidisciplinary approach is best suited for the management of these comorbid conditions.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is the core of treatment for insomnia. Medication can also help patients overcome learned behavioral barriers to sleep. Benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepines are two commonly prescribed drugs for insomnia. But orexin inhibitors may have fewer side effects and less dependence than benzodiazepines, and several newer agents are in the process of research. But which one should a patient choose?
For mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea, oral mandibular advancement devices may be recommended. These oral appliances advance the lower jaw forward to maintain a clear airway during sleep. Patients should consult a sleep specialist to determine whether oral appliances would be an appropriate solution for their condition. Alternatively, a dentist with experience in oral appliances can help patients.
Symptoms
People suffering from both insomnia and sleep apnea may notice recurring problems with breathing, frequent urination, daytime sleepiness, or headaches. Many people aren't aware of the connection between the two. If you are struggling to sleep at night, it's time to consult a sleep medicine specialist. They can help you decide which treatment is right for you.
There are many reasons why someone may suffer from insomnia, including medical conditions such as chronic pain, depression, and anxiety. Also, using certain medications, including sleeping pills, can contribute to sleep deprivation. As people get older, sleep apnea and sleepless legs syndrome become more common. Also, older adults tend to take more prescription medications and may experience insomnia associated with the use of certain drugs. Additionally, children and teens may have problems falling asleep. This is caused by a delayed internal clock in their bodies.
The association between OSA and insomnia was first reported in 1973. More recent research indicates a high prevalence of both among patients with OSA. Although there is no scientific consensus on the causes of insomnia and sleep apnea, both disorders have negative consequences on a patient's life. Insomnia is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, and sleep apnea can worsen the symptoms of the former.
Causes
Insomnia is an issue that affects many people, from those with severe cases to the average person. It can be caused by a variety of things, from environmental factors to life stress. Insomnia may also occur because of a health condition that interferes with a person's sleep schedule. Here are the most common causes of insomnia. And while there are many factors that can cause insomnia, the following are common but less common.
Obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia are two different disorders that are often interrelated. Sleep apnea happens when your airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. The soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses, preventing you from breathing. The number of apneas you experience during a night will determine the severity of your disorder. Insomnia is difficulty falling or staying asleep, and it is often associated with psychiatric conditions.
If you suffer from frequent morning headaches, frequent urination during the night, and daytime sleepiness, you may be suffering from sleep apnea. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to seek a sleep medicine specialist's evaluation. They can help you determine whether you have sleep apnea or another underlying medical condition.