Do you know the link between sleep apnea and depression? Not exactly, So let’s start talking about this yes they both are connected like how? Read this entire blog. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder which causes you to stop breathing during sleep. It can lead to – Insomnia, fatigue, and headaches, which can affect our day-to-day life. According to recent research also shows that sleep apnea can cause major depression.

There is a lot of people are estimated to have a major depressive episode every year. So a significant number of the population could be affected by both conditions.

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Link Between Sleep Apnea and Depression?

There is a connection between sleep apnea and depression. Some people may experience an onset of symptoms from both conditions at the same time, while others experience sleep deprivation before the depression. Talk to a doctor about your condition. 

Both conditions share risk factors which can increase the likelihood of developing either condition aberrantly. As research shows that insomnia is tied to depression, one older study found that insomnia related to sleep maintenance like sleep apnea had the largest correlation to depression and anxiety. According to the study, about 46% of people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) had depressive symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea & Depression?

The symptoms are linked with sleep apnea & Depression:

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

• Loud snoring

• Breathing cessation while sleeping, which may wake you up or be noticed by another person

• Waking up abruptly and feeling short of breath

• Attention problems

• Excessive tiredness during the day

• Headache

• Sore throat or dry mouth upon waking

• Irritability

• Difficulty sleeping

Symptoms of Depression

• Irritability, frustration, and anger over small issues

• Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness

• Changes in appetite

• Sleep disturbances, like insomnia

• Fatigue and tiredness

• Concentrating Problems

• Strong Headache

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How to Manage Sleep Apnea & Depression?

In some cases, treating sleep apnea may help treat depression or reduce its symptoms, especially if it contributes to or causes depression.

You can use some methods to start treating both conditions at home before you even see a doctor. Home treatment for a combination of sleep apnea and depression could include:

• Daily Exercise: This can help to alleviate depression and it also helps with weight loss. Weight loss can ease OSA caused by being overweight.

• Avoid to sleeping on your back: When you sleep on your back, your tongue may block your airway. Try sleeping on your side or stomach instead.

• Say no to Alcohol: Drinking can make both depressions and sleep apnea worse.

• Stop taking sleeping pills: They don’t help sleep apnea and can cause depression in some people.

Conclusion

In the above-mentioned blog, we have talked about the link between sleep apnea and depression and how to manage it. The best way to manage your sleep & depression is to do yoga and physical exercises are the best treatment to make yourself fit and energetic.  But if your condition takes another path then consult a doctor as earlier as you can.

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