I used to suffer from sleep apnea. Oh, I still have it, but I don’t suffer anymore. I don’t suffer because I have an effective treatment for it. Folks, this treatment is life-enhancing; maybe even life-saving. As a result, I am an enthusiastic enemy of sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation is not just a nuisance, it is a destroyer.
For example, sleep scientists have known for some time that sleep deprivation is associated with memory problems. I can personally testify that sleep apnea not only robbed me of my energy and focus but damaged my short term memory. Imagine what it’s like to go through a night without any sleep and be foggy all the next day, then imagine what it’s like going through that every day of your life.
Sleep apnea is a condition in which muscles in the throat relax when you sleep, cutting off the airway and constantly waking you up. Typically, you snore and wake up during the night gasping for air. Then you start having trouble remembering things. This condition is very common and becoming more common over time.
In the past, it has been assumed short term memory problems are caused by sleep deprivation. But when Dr. Ron Harper (Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Memory on ADVANCE for Respiratory Care and Sleep Medicine.) looked inside the brain he discovered much more. The part of the brain that stores memories had shrunk significantly. “The left and right sides of the brain are both reduced and the left side is especially diminished in size,” Harper said. It’s suspected constant oxygen loss is to blame, and a number of research projects involving medication are underway. However, until they come up with something effective, doctors say sleeping with a breathing assist machine and daily exercise is the best treatment.
Perhaps you’re skeptical. In the past people have doubted the ability of the brain to rehabilitate itself. No longer; “We’re finding brain areas do recover especially after exercise,” Harper said. Sleep apnea therapy is also beneficial in many other mental and physical respects, because it enhances the flow of oxygen throughout the body.
I can personally vouch for the effectiveness and benefits of sleep apnea therapy. However, I am aware that many people are reluctant to consider or discuss sleep problems with others, especially doctors. Some think it is a badge of honor to get by on very little sleep. Others believe that sleep problems are a sign of mental or emotional weakness. Nevertheless, if you have concerns or questions about yourself or someone else, and you don’t address those concerns, you are potentially robbing yourself or your loved one of one of the most important things that can be done for quality of life, even for longevity. Tell ‘em Bob sent you!
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