There are many causes of insomnia. One of the more common ones is obstructive sleep apnea – a condition where loose oral tissue obstructs your airways, making it more difficult to breathe at night. “Sleep is for the weak” might be a funny internet meme and the motto of many students, but in all seriousness, a good night’s rest is crucial for our wellbeing.
If you’ve been struggling with your mood lately, keep reading. Your dentist might be able to help alleviate your symptoms.
How are Sleep Apnea and Depression Related?
Depression is a complex mental health problem. It would be inappropriate and inaccurate to say something like “anyone with depression can be cured with a good night’s sleep!” That said, interrupted sleep patterns certainly don’t help your depression. Studies show that restless nights can make us irritable, fatigued, and yes, even depressed. So your sleep apnea is likely further aggravating your depressive symptoms.
If you don’t have a history of depression, studies also show that those with sleep apnea are far more likely to develop depression as a direct result of their condition. Basically, whether or not nightly airway obstruction is the root cause of your troubles, treating your sleep apnea can help.
How Do I Go About Getting Sleep Apnea Treatment?
You’ll have to coordinate with both your primary care physician and, believe it or not, your dentist. Since obstructive sleep apnea involves your oral tissue, your dentist is able to offer sleep relief solutions. First, though, you’ll have to be diagnosed through a sleep test. Downtown Denver Sleep Solutions has equipment that allows you to be tested in the comfort of your own home.
Once your sleep apnea team learns more about the specifics of your condition, they’ll consult with you about a treatment plan. A popular option is to wear an oral appliance while you rest.
Patients appreciate that this mouthguard-like device is less intrusive and quieter than a CPAP machine. Instead of administering air through your airways, an oral appliance treats your sleep apnea by moving your jaw forward. This will cause your oral tissue to shift along with it, effectively clearing your airway so you can breathe – and sleep – without interruption.
Once you’re able to sleep without breaking a REM cycle, you can expect to feel more rested and will likely notice an improvement in your mood as a result. However, as acknowledged, depression is a complicated problem. Your dentist will be able to help a lot, but you should stay in contact with your mental health team as well. The best care is comprehensive care!
About the Practice
Drs. Glenn Thompson and Gary Radz know firsthand how much sleep apnea can interfere with your life and mood. In fact, their own experience with the condition is why they decided to specialize in sleep apnea treatment. Now, they’re considered experts in their field, and are happy to serve patients through oral appliance therapy. If you’re interested in an at-home sleep test or want to know more, you can call their office at 303-377-5337 or visit their website.