For thousands of years, mankind has been aware that sleep is an important part of maintaining excellent health. Unfortunately, though, millions of Americans are missing out on the vital rest they need due to sleep apnea. The problem is compounded because each stage of sleep plays a key role in the overall quality of your rest. As you read on, learn about the threat of sleep apnea in Columbus and why it’s important to receive the proper type of rest at night.
What is Sleep Apnea?
For people suffering from sleep apnea, their rest is repeatedly interrupted by breaks in their breathing. With each occurrence, distress signals are sent from the brain that cause them to awaken. These frequent interruptions can lead to daytime lethargy, the inability to concentrate, headaches and several other issues.
Part of the problem is that people who suffer from sleep apnea are unable to reap the full benefits of each stage of sleep, so let’s take a more in-depth look at what these stages entail.
Stages 1 and 2 – Light Sleep
When you enter stage 1 sleep, your eye movement slows down, yet your body is still alert to your external environment. This stage, which only lasts for a few minutes, allows you to transition into deeper rest.
Once you enter stage 2, you drift into fairly light sleep as the brain begins producing special waves called sleep spindles. They serve as protection against early awakenings.
Stages 3 and 4 – Deep Sleep and REM Sleep
By the time you enter stage 3, you’re considered to be in “deep sleep.” This is prime time for the body to repair muscles or tissues that were stressed during the day. Additionally, during this phase of sleep, your immune system is recharged, and your cells are revitalized. This is also a very important time for children and teenagers, as it encourages growth and development.
The next stage of sleep is REM (rapid eye movement). It’s given this name because at this time, your eyes begin to rapidly move in different directions. You’ll also experience an elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure and shallow breathing.
During this final stage of sleep, the brain will also consolidate information from the previous day’s activities, and the data is stored as memory. The sum total of receiving the proper rest at each stage of sleep is that you’ll be a healthier and happier person.
The Problems That Sleep Interruption Can Cause
If you’re struggling with sleep apnea and constantly being awakened throughout the night, then you’re not able to spend enough time in stages 3 and 4 of the sleep cycle. This can have life-threatening effects on your health, as improper sleep can lead to:
- Stroke
- Hypertension
- Heart Disease
- Cardiac Arrest
- Alzheimer’s Disease
The good news is there is help available for you. You can start by bringing any sleep issues to your primary care physician’s attention so you can undergo a sleep study. If you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea, you can then reach out to your local sleep dentist to receive the vital treatment you need so you can be the best version of yourself possible!
About the Author
A graduate of The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, Dr. Eric Buck helps patients overcome sleep apnea so they can receive the full benefits of a night of sleep. Additionally, he maintains professional membership with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine so he can stay abreast of the latest changes and advancements in treating sleep apnea. Dr. Buck provides expert care at The Columbus Sleep Center, and he can be reached for more information through his website.