The Connection Between Breathing Difficulties And Poor Sleep

Shot of stressed business woman working from home on laptop looking worried, tired and overwhelmed.It goes without saying that everyone is unique, and nobody’s schedule, environment, or even experience is the same as another’s. The same can be said about health and wellbeing, and custom care is the best practice for addressing these unique needs. Though everyone must sleep to recharge their physical and mental battery, not everyone experiences a sound night of sleep. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX dentist discusses the connection between breathing difficulties when sleeping and poor sleep, as well as why it is important to seek treatment for your concerns.

What is a Sleep Issue?

Though your daily routine may differ significantly from another’s, both of your days will conclude with you laying down to go to sleep. Indeed, sleep is necessary for bodily homeostasis and helps recharge your mental and physical battery. As humans, we require anywhere between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, but some individuals may operate on a bodily clock that is fully energized with more or less hours.

The problem arises, however, when we are unable to achieve the minimum amount of restful sleep needed to operate efficiently. In fact, this can lead to difficulties focusing during the day, irritable mood, and hypersomnia during regular business hours. When these symptoms become prevalent and consistent, it is important to seek help to determine if it is a sleep issue.

Sleep issues, also known as sleep disorders, are changes in sleeping patterns or habits that can negatively affect your health. Without proper care, these issues can progress in potentially life-threatening ways, so it is better to act sooner rather than later. For more information about this, reach out to our office.

How it is Affecting You

If you or your partner experiences snoring while you sleep, it could be beneficial to check for sleep apnea. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that occurs when the muscles in the throat relax while you slumber, resulting in the airway to become blocked. The reverberation of air against these muscles is what is heard as snoring.

When a person experiences OSA, there is not enough oxygen making its way to the brain. The brain responds by sending signals to briefly rouse you so the issue can be resolved. This results in a cyclical process in which you are unable to achieve appropriate levels of rest.

Other Considerations

Another issue that might be bothering you at night includes chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. When the throat muscles are relaxed, your brain can send instructions to grind your teeth, which results in tightening of the muscles and, subsequently, an airway that is no longer obstructed.

Schedule your Appointment

Disruptions to slumber can be harmful to your health, and it is important to seek help sooner rather than later. Contact SleepWell Houston in Houston, TX by calling 713-796-9600 to learn more about possible treatment options and schedule your appointment today.