Meet John. He’s a recent patient of Sleep Better, Georgia, and a classic example of the type of case we see over and over. Many Americans experience his symptoms – and the resulting diagnosis is costing the U.S. economy up to $411 billion a year. What’s worse is that his condition is putting him at an increased risk for on-the-job injuries, car accidents, and a host of other serious health concerns.
Are you like John?
He was constantly tired, irritable, and having trouble functioning at work. Middle-aged and a little heavier than he was comfortable with, his partner was also getting tired — of John’s constant snoring. John had no idea he needed sleep apnea treatment until he got some advice from the unlikeliest of places.
Most people’s bosses don’t talk to them about their sleep habits. But John’s supervisor had noticed he was slacking at work, his eyes drooping during their weekly meetings. Instead of reprimanding John, she stepped in and suggested he make some lifestyle changes to improve his sleep.
John soon met with a sleep specialist, who determined that he was suffering from a common sleep condition: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). With prompt treatment, he was able to regain his restful sleep — and he’s never been happier (or more productive) at work. His regained his vitality and has increased energy for his family and hobbies
John’s story is not unique. An estimated 83 million Americans don’t get sufficient sleep, and as many as 22 million suffer from sleep apnea, with 80 percent of cases remaining undiagnosed. Persistent snoring and fatigue are tell-tale signs of sleep apnea, which when left untreated, takes a dramatic toll on a person’s overall health and well-being.
Is Sleep Apnea Affecting You?
For people who are mid-career, the effects of sleep deprivation and sleep apnea can be especially detrimental when they take hold at work. Sluggishness, missed days, and low productivity may affect your ability to get ahead at the most crucial moments. In fact, one study says that we could add $226.4 billion to the US economy if people slept just one hour more each night.
Signs of Sleep Deprivation
- Increased hunger
- Inexplicable weight gain
- Memory problems
- Frequent illness
- Worsening vision
- Anxiety
- Depression
Signs of Sleep Apnea
- Loud, chronic snoring (read: your sleeping partner complains about you waking them up!)
- Frequent waking throughout the night
- Waking with a gasp or choking sound
- Waking up feeling more tired than before you went to sleep
- Difficulty completing everyday tasks
- Sore throat or dry mouth in the morning
Remember that it is often not the sleep apnea sufferer who recognizes the issue — often, it’s an equally sleep deprived partner who first notices the chronic snoring and fitful sleep.
Because the symptoms of sleep deprivation and sleep apnea are often associated with other conditions, sufferers may go for months or even years without seeking treatment for their issue. By examining your sleep habits and paying attention to your body, you can monitor the signs and find the treatment that’s right for you. These symptoms can greatly affect your quality of life – don’t let them become your normal!
Think poor sleep quality is just something you have to deal with as you get older? Think again. Sleep Better, Georgia can help you identify the underlying cause of your fatigue, and get you started on a path to renewed vitality and productivity. You deserve to be at your best with a great night’s sleep. Request an appointment today!