I have sleep apnea

[Catlady711]

Sorry to hear you have sleep apnea, but glad to hear that they did diagnose it so they can help you.

Yes lack of sleep can affect everything you do and your health in some surprising ways. Hopefully they'll get you on track to a good, restfull night's sleep on a regular basis.

[Catty1]

An example of what sleep apnea affects:
http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleep_disorders.htm

Do you . . .

* feel irritable or sleepy during the day?
* have difficulty staying awake when sitting still, watching television or reading?
* fall asleep or feel very tired while driving?
* have difficulty concentrating?
* often get told by others that you look tired?
* react slowly?
* have emotional outbursts?
* feel like taking a nap almost every day?
* require caffeinated beverages to keep yourself going?

http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleep_apnea.htm

Effects of sleep apnea on health
Sleep apnea has serious health consequences and can even be life-threatening. The main effects of sleep apnea are sleep deprivation and oxygen deprivation.

Sleep deprivation

Sleep deprivation hurts the person with sleep apnea and the bed partner. Frequent waking, whether remembered or not, causes fitful sleep and prohibits therapeutic rest. A bed partner may lose an hour or more of sleep each night from sleeping next to a person with sleep apnea. Along with the apnea episodes, side effects like excessive sweating and a frequent need to urinate disrupt sleep.
Often, a person with sleep apnea will wake up feeling like they have not slept or have difficulty staying awake during the day. Some trickle-down effects of sleep deprivation include a compromised immune system, poor mental and emotional health, and irritability.

Oxygen deprivation

When you stop breathing, your brain does not get enough oxygen. Serious problems can result from the oxygen deprivation of sleep apnea, including heart disease, high blood pressure, sexual dysfunction, and learning/memory problems.

Depression and sleep apnea

Approximately one in five people who suffer from depression also suffer from sleep apnea, and people with sleep apnea are five times more likely to become depressed. Existing depression may also be worsened by sleep apnea. While it is not clear whether the apnea causes the depression or vice-versa, studies show that by treating sleep apnea symptoms, depression may be alleviated in some people.

PS: A driving study showed that people with untreated sleep apnea drove just as badly as people whose blood alcohol level was over the limit.

This isn't just a chamomile-tea-at-bed situation.

[davidpizzica]

Catty, when I was tested, I stopped breathing 57 times in an hour, which is extremely dangerous. My CPAP machine has made a world of difference in my sleep and my ability to cope with my other health problems. Also, being portable, I was able to bring it up to the assisted living facility where I live now. Good luck with your machine.

[phesina]

Good God. Take care of yourself, Candace. I'm glad you have got this diagnosed, so you can take steps to alleviate it.

Wishing you all the best,
Pat

[Marigold2]

Oh I am so sorry please take care of yourself.

[Nomilynn]

I was diagnosed with sleep apnea about 3 or 4 years ago. I did the overnight stay in the hospital (the take home one didn't show anything) but it didn't take me 8 months to get in.. it was actually about 4 weeks, but I got in on a cancellation. Otherwise I think it was closer to 12 weeks.

Anyway, it was found that in 7hrs and 43 minutes, I was roused over 380 times, so I basically was being "woken up" ever 40 seconds or something rediculous. My specialist said that I was the worst case she had in her practice, and I was only 25 years old!

I was told I would have to use the machine as well, but I said that I wanted to try surgery first. I had my tonsils and uvula removed, as well as some tissue at the back of my throat. I figured if the surgery didn't work, I would go to the machine, but I REALLY REALLY REALLY didn't want to have to use one. Since the surgery, I am doing way better. I snore but only when I have a cold of if my neck is kind of crimped.

I'm so glad I did it. I used to get tonsilitis ALL the time, and I was always in pain and my tonsils were always swollen. Right before I saw the specialist, I was on antibiotics for about a month straight with strep throat. Since the surgery, I haven't even had a sore throat, let alone strep! And, I sleep like a baby!