Researchers at the UCLA School of Nursing recently published
a study demonstrating the toll sleep apnea can take on the brain. During this sleep apnea test,
male and female participants were asked to perform three physical tasks, two of
which involved responses in the limbs.
While performing the three activities, participants who
suffered from sleep apnea had less blow flowing to the brain than subjects
without the disorder. The study also found that female sufferers had worse
brain blood flow during the tasks than their male counterparts.
Over time, sleep apnea can lead to fatigue and a host of other
problems affecting mood and mental clarity, including:
- Insomnia
- Severe headaches
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Memory problems
- Trouble concentrating
Though not getting a good night’s sleep can make even simple
tasks the next day harder, the consistent interruptions to blood oxygen caused
by sleep apnea can damage brain cells. These findings could shine further light
on the difficulties patients with sleep apnea experience in school and work
situations: The disorder has been linked to everything from diminished ability
to pay attention in the classroom to major car and public transit accidents.
If you regularly feel fatigued and significantly less
focused and alert, undergo a sleep apnea test today. Contact a qualified physician
in your area or call 1 (866) 727-6275
(1-8-NO-PAP-MASK) to learn more
about the risks of apnea and your treatment options.