Perspective,  J Sleep Disor Treat Care Vol: 13 Issue: 1

Untangling the Link between Sleep Apnea and Daytime Fatigue

Xi Fang^*

¹Department of Neurology, Songjiang Health Care Hospital, Shanghai, China

*Corresponding Author: Xi Fang,
Department of Neurology, Songjiang Health Care Hospital, Shanghai, China
E-mail: xifang@gmail.com

Received date: 17 September, 2024, Manuscript No. JSDTC-24-150199;

Editor assigned date: 19 September, 2024, PreQC No. JSDTC-24-150199 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 3 October, 2024, QC No. JSDTC-24-150199;

Revised date: 10 October, 2024, Manuscript No. JSDTC-24-150199 (R);

Published date: 18 October, 2024, DOI: 10.4172/2325-9639.1000160.

Citation: Fang X (2024) Untangling the Link between Sleep Apnea and Daytime Fatigue. J Sleep Disor Treat Care 13:1.

Abstract

Description

Sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, is often linked to persistent daytime fatigue. This condition can have a deeply impact on an individual’s quality of life, resulting in impaired concentration, mood disturbances and increased risk of accidents. Understanding the relationship between sleep apnea and daytime fatigue is important for addressing the disorder and improving the overall health of those affected. Central sleep apnea, on the other hand, is caused by the brain’s inability to send proper signals to the muscles responsible for breathing. Both forms of sleep apnea lead to reduced oxygen intake and frequent disruptions in sleep, often without the individual being fully aware of these awakenings.

In patients with sleep apnea, the body repeatedly shifts from deep sleep (particularly restorative REM sleep) to lighter stages of sleep as it tries to resume normal breathing. These continuous arousals prevent the person from entering the more restorative phases of sleep, which are essential for physical and mental recovery. As a result, the individual wakes up feeling tired, regardless of how long they were in bed. The constant interruptions in sleep caused by sleep apnea result in what’s known as "sleep fragmentation." Although these arousals might not fully awaken the individual, they still disrupt the sleep cycle. Over time, this fragmentation adds up, leading to sleep deprivation even if the person has spent the recommended number of hours in bed.

Daytime fatigue associated with sleep apnea is largely a consequence of this fragmented sleep. The body and brain are deprived of deep sleep stages, particularly REM sleep, which plays a key role in cognitive function, mood regulation and memory consolidation. Without sufficient REM sleep, individuals may experience difficulty concentrating, memory problems and irritability. Additionally, the drop in oxygen levels during sleep apnea episodes forces the body to work harder to maintain oxygen supply. This leads to physical strain, which can also contribute to feelings of exhaustion and sluggishness during the day.

Daytime fatigue is not just an inconvenience; it causes serious health risks. Individuals with sleep apnea are more likely to experience impaired cognitive function, leading to difficulties in concentrating at work or school. This cognitive decline can also make it difficult to perform routine tasks, increasing the likelihood of mistakes or accidents. In fact, studies have shown that untreated sleep apnea significantly raises the risk of motor vehicle accidents due to drowsy driving. The long-term consequences of untreated sleep apnea extend beyond daytime fatigue. The condition has been linked to an increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Fatigue, when combined with these underlying health conditions, can exacerbate the individual’s overall health decline.

Treating sleep apnea is essential for reducing daytime fatigue and improving quality of life. The most common and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, which uses a machine to keep the airway open during sleep. CPAP has been shown to significantly reduce daytime fatigue by allowing individuals to experience uninterrupted sleep. The link between sleep apnea and daytime fatigue is clear: Fragmented sleep caused by frequent breathing interruptions prevents individuals from achieving restorative sleep, leading to chronic tiredness during the day. Treating sleep apnea not only reduces fatigue but also improves overall health and well-being, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and management of this sleep disorder.