The Role of Exercise in Promoting Better Sleep Quality

Too Tired to Sleep? How Exercising More Can Improve Your Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep is vital for both physical and mental well-being. However, many individuals have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep through the night, or feeling restored after a full night’s rest. Engaging in regular exercise may be one solution for improving sleep quality. Whether you struggle with insomnia, feel drowsy during the day, or simply want to improve your sleep hygiene, adding physical activity into your daily routine can help you fall asleep faster, sleep more soundly, and wake up feeling refreshed.

The Role of Exercise in Promoting Better Sleep Quality

Getting enough high-quality sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. However, many people struggle to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel rested after a full night’s sleep. Exercise may be one solution for improving sleep.

How Exercise Promotes Sleep

Exercise has been scientifically proven to help people fall asleep faster, enjoy more restful sleep, and feel more alert during the day. There are a few key ways that exercise promotes better shut-eye:

Reduces Stress and Anxiety – Exercise decreases levels of the stress hormone cortisol and helps manage anxiety. Lower stress leads to less nighttime tossing and turning.

Regulates Circadian Rhythm – Our natural circadian rhythm controls our sleep/wake cycle. Exercise helps align this 24-hour cycle so we feel sleepy at bedtime.

Raises Body Temperature – Vigorous late-day exercise temporarily raises body temperature, which precipitates cooling down. This temperature drop triggers sleepy feelings.

Induces Deeper Sleep – Tiring out the body through exercise leads to more time spent in slow-wave and REM sleep, when the body is truly at rest.

Best Types of Exercise for Sleep

Certain forms of exercise are particularly powerful when it comes to enhancing sleep:

Yoga – Gentle evening yoga relaxes the body and mind before bed. Inverted poses boost circulation.
Aerobic – Get the heart pumping with jogging, swimming, cycling, or similar cardio early in the day.
Resistance Training – Lifting weights triggers the release of sleep hormones like growth hormones.
Walking – Low-intensity walking in the evenings helps regulate the circadian rhythm.
Tai Chi – This mind-body practice reduces stress and relaxes muscles when done before bedtime.

Tips for Exercising for Better Sleep

Follow these tips to maximize the sleep-promoting benefits of exercise:

Exercise daily for 20-30 minutes minimum, building up to higher intensity and duration. Consistency is key.
Avoid vigorous exercise within 2-3 hours of bedtime, as it may overstimulate.
Ease exertion as the evening approaches, by doing lighter activities like yoga or walking.
Hydrate well during and after exercise to prevent disruptive nighttime bathroom trips.
Don’t exercise right before bed, as the post-workout adrenaline surge can make it harder to fall asleep.
Allow the body to cool down before laying down to sleep.

Improving sleep through daily exercise has cascading positive effects on health, energy, mood, and concentration. Just be mindful of timing and intensity when working out close to bedtime. Consult Encino, CA sleep specialist before starting any new exercise regimen

Insomnia Frustrating You? We Have Solutions

Struggling to get a good night’s sleep? You don’t have to deal with restless nights and drowsy days alone. At Encino Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, we understand the frustrations of insomnia and are here to help get your sleep schedule back on track. Our team of seasoned sleep dentists can work with you to develop a customized treatment plan involving targeted exercise regimens and other proven sleep-promoting therapies.

Take the first step and call (818) 300-0070 to schedule a consultation. We are committed to your sleep health and restoring the restorative rest you need to function at your best. Don’t wait another restless night – with our integrative approach focused on exercise and other lifestyle changes, you can achieve transformative improvements in your sleep.

Dreamland Delayed: How Gadgets Leave You Bleary-Eyed at Bedtime

It’s no secret our growing screen time is having adverse effects on our health, and one central area being impacted is our sleep. Strong correlations between increased device use before bed and poorer quality and quantity of sleep. This issue is quite prevalent right now in places like Encino, CA, where technology use is high. Dr. Simmons often talks with patients about mitigating tech’s effects on sleep.

What Is Blue Light?

The blue light emitted from phones, tablets, computers, and TVs is a critical culprit in sleep disruption. This light inhibits the release of melatonin, our sleep hormone, tricking our brains into feeling more awake. Teens in Encino, CA tend to be on screens late into the night, leading to chronic sleep deprivation. Dr. Simmons sees many groggy adolescent patients and counsels them on improving sleep hygiene.

How Does Blue Light Affect Sleep?

Besides blue light’s effects, the mental stimulation from screens also makes it harder for our minds to unwind at night. Whether you’re finishing up work emails or getting sucked into a social media scroll session, having your brain engaged right before bed is detrimental to falling and staying asleep. Dr. Simmons recommends calming pre-sleep activities like reading a book, taking a bath, or trying meditation.

What’s more, notifications from our devices can disrupt our sleep by causing micro-awakenings. Even if you don’t fully wake up, these brief arousals fragment your sleep, reducing its restorative benefits. Families should consider turning off WiFi at night or setting all devices to silent mode before bed. For patients having sleep issues, Dr. Simmons suggests leaving phones out of the bedroom entirely.

What is Sleep Deprivation?

Sleep deprivation can accumulate and seriously impact health, well-being, and performance. Daytime drowsiness makes it hard for patients to focus at work and often increases the risk of accidents. There are also impacts on mood, immune function, and heart health over time. Dr. Simmons sees lack of sleep exacerbating many medical conditions.

How Do I Get Better Sleep?

The good news is making some adjustments can go a long way in preserving precious sleep. Experts recommend avoiding screens for at least an hour before bedtime. Dimming the lights in your Encino, CA home at night helps cue melatonin release as well. Dr. Simmons advises patients to establish a consistent, relaxing pre-bed routine. Getting organized and tackling worries earlier in the day can prevent mental stimulation from spilling over into sleep time too.

Take These Simple Steps to Achieve Better Sleep

If you or a loved one in Encino, CA has been struggling with poor sleep, don’t wait to take action. Lack of sleep can seriously deteriorate your health and quality of life over time.

At Encino Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, your sleep health is their top priority. Their sole mission is to help patients achieve restful nights and improved well-being. If you’re tired of tossing and turning, call Encino Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders today at (818) 300-0070 and reclaim the benefits of a good night’s sleep. The time for better sleep is now!

Unwind and Unplug: The Secrets of Meditation and Yoga for Blissful Sleep

In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, many people find it challenging to get a good night’s sleep. Stress, anxiety, and an overactive mind can all contribute to restless nights and groggy mornings. If you’re tired of tossing and turning, and longing for a deep, rejuvenating sleep, incorporating meditation and yoga into your routine might be the solution you’ve been searching for. These practices offer numerous benefits that can help you achieve better sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and energized.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Meditation and yoga are renowned for their ability to calm the mind and relax the body. By focusing on your breath and being present at the moment, you can reduce stress and anxiety levels significantly. This helps quiet the mind’s racing thoughts and worries, creating a more serene mental state conducive to sleep.

Enhancing Relaxation and Mindfulness

Both meditation and yoga promote relaxation and mindfulness, which are essential for restful sleep. Regular practice trains your mind to stay present and avoid dwelling on past regrets or future worries. By cultivating a sense of peace and tranquility, you can create the ideal mental environment for falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night.

Balancing Hormones and Circadian Rhythms

Sleep is influenced by various hormones and your body’s natural circadian rhythms. Meditation and yoga can help regulate these processes. Certain yoga poses, such as forward bends or inversions, stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which triggers the relaxation response and supports hormone balance. Meditation, on the other hand, promotes the release of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. By harmonizing these vital physiological functions, you can establish a healthier sleep pattern.

Relieving Physical Tension and Discomfort

Physical tension and discomfort can disrupt sleep and make it difficult to find a comfortable position. Yoga incorporates gentle stretching, poses, and movements that help release muscle tension and improve flexibility. By practicing yoga regularly, you can alleviate pain, relax your body, and prepare it for deep and restful sleep.

Improving Sleep Quality and Duration

One of the most significant benefits of incorporating meditation and yoga into your routine is the improvement in sleep quality and duration. Studies have shown that these practices can increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of well-being and relaxation. This, in turn, helps regulate sleep patterns and enhance sleep quality, leading to a more refreshing, rejuvenating slumber.

Developing a Bedtime Ritual

Establishing a bedtime ritual is essential for signaling your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Meditation and yoga can be integral parts of this ritual. Engaging in a brief meditation session or a gentle yoga practice before bed can create a calming routine that prepares your mind and body for rest. Consistency is key, so make an effort to practice regularly to reap the full benefits.

Enhancing Overall Well-being

Meditation and yoga offer a wide range of benefits beyond better sleep. Regular practice can reduce blood pressure, boost immune function, improve mood, and increase self-awareness. By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you’ll experience an overall improvement in your well-being, leading to a more balanced and fulfilled existence.

From Tossing to Tranquil

If you’re struggling with sleep issues and looking for professional help, it’s essential to consult a sleep dentist who specializes in addressing sleep disorders. Don’t let restless nights affect your overall health and well-being. Take a proactive step towards better sleep by reaching out to our team of experts. Call us today at (818) 300-0070 to schedule a consultation and discover how our sleep dentistry services can help you achieve the peaceful and refreshing sleep you deserve. Don’t wait any longer — take control of your sleep health now.

woman with brown hair sleeping in a white bed with her hand on her alarm clock

Sleep Soundly in Encino, CA: Top 10 Tips for Restful Nights

A good night’s sleep is essential for our overall well-being and productivity. If you’re residing in Encino, CA, and struggling to get quality sleep, this blog post is just for you. We’ve curated a list of the top 10 tips that will help you create a peaceful sleep environment and improve your sleep hygiene. By following these tips from Dr. Simmons, you can wake up refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the day in beautiful Encino.

Ten Ways to Get a Better Night’s Sleep

Create a Soothing Bedroom Environment

Your bedroom should be a sleep sanctuary. Keep it cool, quiet, and dark. Consider using blackout curtains, earplugs, or a white noise machine to block out any disruptive sounds. Invest in a comfortable mattress, pillows, and breathable bedding to enhance your sleep quality.

Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Establishing a regular sleep schedule helps regulate your body’s internal clock. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This consistency will train your body to recognize when it’s time to sleep, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally.

Limit Exposure to Electronics Before Bed

The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your sleep-wake cycle. Avoid using smartphones, tablets, or laptops at least one hour before bedtime. Instead, engage in relaxing activities such as reading a book or taking a warm bath.

Avoid Caffeine and Stimulants

Limit your intake of caffeine and stimulants, especially in the afternoon and evening. Consuming coffee, tea, or energy drinks close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep. Opt for decaffeinated beverages or herbal tea instead.

Establish a Bedtime Routine

Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. This can include activities like listening to soft music, practicing deep breathing exercises, or doing light stretching. Find what relaxes you and incorporate it into your routine.

Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity during the day can promote better sleep. However, avoid intense exercise close to bedtime, as it may energize your body and make it difficult to fall asleep. Aim to finish your workout at least a few hours before bedtime.

Manage Stress

Stress and anxiety can greatly affect your sleep quality. Find effective ways to manage stress, such as practicing meditation, journaling, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist. Creating a peaceful and worry-free mindset before bed can help you drift into a deep sleep.

Maintain a Comfortable Room Temperature

Encino can experience warm temperatures, even at night. Ensure your bedroom is cool and comfortable for sleep. Adjust the thermostat or use a fan or air conditioner to create a suitable sleeping environment.

Evaluate Your Mattress and Pillows

The right mattress and pillows are crucial for a good night’s sleep. If you wake up with aches and pains or find it difficult to get comfortable, it may be time to invest in a new mattress or pillows that provide proper support for your body.

Seek Professional Help When Needed

If you consistently struggle with sleep issues despite implementing these tips, consider seeking help from a sleep specialist like Dr. Simmons. They can diagnose and treat any underlying sleep disorders or provide personalized guidance to improve your sleep quality.

Unlock the Secrets to Blissful Sleep

Don’t let another restless night pass you by. Take control of your sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and energized. It’s time to prioritize your well-being and create the peaceful nights you deserve. Contact us at 818-300-0070 and let our experts guide you toward better sleep in Encino, CA.

Say goodbye to tossing and turning, and embrace the transformative power of a good night’s rest. Your body, mind, and soul will thank you. Take the first step toward a better tomorrow.

The Science of Sleep: Understanding Sleep Stages and Their Importance

Sleep is crucial for our health and well-being, yet often undervalued and neglected. Lack of sleep can seriously affect our physical and mental health, affecting our productivity, mood, and cognitive abilities.

The Sleep Cycle

Before we dive into the different stages of sleep, it’s important to understand the sleep cycle. The sleep cycle is a pattern of brain activity that occurs during sleep. It typically lasts around 90 minutes and repeats throughout the night.

There are two types of sleep: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM). NREM sleep is further divided into three stages: N1, N2, and N3.

Stage 1 (N1)

Stage 1 sleep is the lightest stage of sleep and typically lasts for only a few minutes. During this stage, your brain waves start to slow down, and you may experience hypnic jerks, which are involuntary muscle twitches.

Stage 2 (N2)

Stage 2 sleep is deeper than stage 1 and lasts around 20 minutes. During this stage, your body temperature drops, your heart rate slows down, and your brain waves continue to slow.

Stage 3 (N3)

Stage 3 sleep is also known as deep sleep or slow-wave sleep (SWS). It’s the deepest stage of sleep and typically lasts for around 30 minutes. During this stage, your brain waves slow down even further, and your body is completely relaxed. This is the stage of sleep that is most important for physical restoration and repair.

Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep

REM sleep is the stage of sleep where we dream. It typically occurs around 90 minutes after we fall asleep and lasts for around 10 minutes. During this stage, our brain waves are similar to wakefulness, and our eyes move rapidly back and forth. REM sleep is crucial for cognitive restoration and emotional processing.

The Importance of Sleep Stages

Each stage of sleep plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. N1 and N2 sleep are important for memory consolidation and processing, while N3 sleep is crucial for physical restoration and repair. REM sleep is essential for emotional processing and cognitive restoration.

When we don’t get enough sleep or our sleep is interrupted, we may not be able to complete a full sleep cycle. This can negatively affect our physical and mental health. For example, lack of deep sleep has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Similarly, lack of REM sleep has been linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety.

Prioritize Your Health with These Science-Backed Sleep Strategies

At Encino Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, we cannot overstate the importance of quality sleep for our overall health and well-being. It’s time we start taking sleep seriously and prioritizing it in our daily lives. Make an appointment today to improve your sleep hygiene by creating a peaceful sleep environment, setting a consistent sleep schedule, and limiting screen time before bed.

Together, we can prioritize sleep and unlock the immense benefits it offers. Remember, a good night’s sleep is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Take action now and start your journey towards better sleep and better health.

Get Better Sleep With These Diet Changes

If you or someone you love suffers from sleep apnea, you know how frustrating and exhausting it can be. The constant interruptions to your sleep can leave you feeling tired, irritable, and overwhelmed. It’s a condition that can take a toll not just on your physical health, but also on your emotional well-being.

But what if I told you there’s a connection between your diet and sleep apnea? By making some simple dietary changes, you can improve your sleep quality and reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. So let’s dive in and explore the impact of diet on your sleep, and how you can make dietary changes to ease your sleep apnea.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. The condition is caused by a blockage or narrowing of the airways, which can occur when the muscles in the throat relax too much. The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses and blocks the airway. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is less common and occurs when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe.

Sleep apnea can have a significant impact on your health and quality of life. The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, waking up feeling tired, morning headaches, and irritability. In addition to these symptoms, sleep apnea can also lead to more serious health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

The Impact of Diet on Your Sleep

Your diet can have a significant impact on your sleep quality, and making some dietary changes can help alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea. Here are some ways in which diet can affect your sleep:

Inflammation

Inflammation in the body can also contribute to sleep apnea. Eating a diet high in processed and refined foods can increase inflammation in the body and worsen sleep apnea symptoms.

Acid reflux

Acid reflux is a common problem among people with sleep apnea. The condition occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. Eating a diet high in acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and coffee, can increase your risk of acid reflux and worsen sleep apnea symptoms.

Obesity

Obesity is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea. The excess weight can put pressure on the airways, making it more difficult to breathe during sleep. A diet high in calories, fat, and sugar can contribute to weight gain and increase your risk of obesity.

Nutrient deficiencies

Some nutrients, such as magnesium and vitamin D, are essential for a good night’s sleep. A diet low in these nutrients can contribute to sleep disturbances and worsen sleep apnea symptoms.

Dietary Changes to Ease Your Sleep Apnea

Making some dietary changes can help alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea and improve your sleep quality. Here are some dietary changes you can make to ease your sleep apnea:

Lose weight: If you’re overweight or obese, losing weight can help alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea. A healthy diet that’s low in calories, fat, and sugar can help you lose weight and improve your sleep quality.

Eat an anti-inflammatory diet: Eating a diet high in anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate sleep apnea symptoms. Some anti-inflammatory foods include fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts.

Avoid acidic foods: To reduce the risk of acid reflux and improve your sleep quality, avoid eating acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and coffee, especially before bedtime.

Eat magnesium-rich foods: Magnesium is essential for a good night’s sleep and can help alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea. Foods that are high in magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. You can also consider taking a magnesium supplement, but it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.

Get enough vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for a good night’s sleep and can help alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea. Foods that are high in vitamin D include fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods like milk and cereal. You can also get vitamin D from sunlight exposure, but it’s important to talk to your doctor before increasing your sun exposure.

Limit alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can interfere with your sleep quality and worsen sleep apnea symptoms. Limit your intake of these substances, especially before bedtime.

Eat smaller meals: Eating large meals before bedtime can increase the risk of acid reflux and worsen sleep apnea symptoms. To reduce the risk of acid reflux, eat smaller meals and avoid eating within a few hours of bedtime.

Take Action Against Sleep Apnea

If you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea, don’t let it continue to disrupt your sleep and affect your overall health and well-being. Consider making some dietary changes to ease your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Talk to Dr. Simmons about incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, avoiding acidic foods, and increasing your intake of magnesium and vitamin D. By taking action now, you can start getting the restful sleep you deserve and live your life to the fullest.

Sleep Apnea and Exercise: How Physical Activity Can Alleviate Symptoms

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have negative impacts on an individual’s overall health and well-being. It is characterized by frequent pauses in breathing while sleeping, leading to poor sleep quality and other health issues.

While there are various treatment options for sleep apnea, including the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, exercise is an effective way to manage and reduce the severity of sleep apnea. In this blog, we will explore the connection between weight and sleep apnea and how weight loss through exercise can help to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea.

The Connection Between Weight and Sleep Apnea

One of the leading causes of sleep apnea is excess weight, particularly in the form of excess fat around the neck and throat area. This excess fat can cause the airway to become obstructed during sleep, leading to the occurrence of pauses in breathing. Additionally, obesity can lead to other health issues such as high blood pressure and heart disease, which can further exacerbate sleep apnea.

Women doing exercise to treat sleep apnea

How Weight Loss Can Help

Weight loss through exercise is an effective way to reduce the severity of sleep apnea. By reducing body weight, individuals can reduce the amount of excess fat around the neck and throat area, which can help to improve airflow and reduce the occurrence of pauses in breathing during sleep. Additionally, regular exercise can help to improve cardiovascular health, which can reduce the risk of other health issues associated with obesity and sleep apnea.

A 10% reduction in body weight can lead to a significant reduction in the severity of sleep apnea, as measured by the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). The AHI measures the number of pauses in breathing per hour of sleep, with a higher number indicating more severe sleep apnea. The study found that individuals who lost 10% or more of their body weight had a significant decrease in their AHI score, indicating a reduction in the severity of sleep apnea.

Additionally, exercise can help to strengthen the respiratory muscles, including the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. By strengthening these muscles, individuals can improve their ability to breathe and reduce the occurrence of pauses in breathing during sleep. Regular exercise can also improve lung function and increase oxygen uptake, both of which can contribute to a reduction in the severity of sleep apnea.

Let Exercise Be Your First Solution

If you or someone you know is struggling with sleep apnea, consider incorporating regular exercise into your routine as a way to manage and reduce the severity of symptoms. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for your individual needs and start taking steps towards improving your overall health and well-being. While weight loss may not solve everyone’s sleep apnea struggles, it can often provide a solution without the need for medication or sleep devices. Remember, small changes can make a big impact, and taking control of your health starts with taking action.

Exhaustion at work caused by sleep apnea

Managing Sleep Apnea Symptoms at Work

Sleep apnea affects many people and causes interruptions in breathing while sleeping, which can lead to feelings of tiredness and irritability during the day. This can make it hard for someone to work and do their job well. Sleep apnea can cause other problems, like headaches, dry mouth, and chest pain. These symptoms can make it hard for someone to complete their tasks or be productive in certain work environments.

Headaches caused by sleep apnea can make it difficult to focus on assignments. Fatigue can lead to drowsiness and decreased productivity. A dry mouth can make it difficult to speak. Chest pain can cause discomfort and make it hard to focus on tasks. All of these symptoms can impact an individual’s work performance, leading to decreased productivity, increased errors, and even absenteeism.

Individuals with sleep apnea should manage their symptoms to maintain optimal work performance. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to long-term health problems, and can negatively impact one’s personal and professional life. Employers should also be aware of the potential impact of sleep apnea on their employees, and work with them to provide accommodations to help manage the condition. Making changes to your lifestyle can also help. Losing weight, quitting smoking, and drinking less alcohol can help improve symptoms of sleep apnea. If you think you may have sleep apnea, it’s essential to talk to a doctor and get treatment as soon as possible.

Overall, managing sleep apnea symptoms is crucial for maintaining excellent health and productivity. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, people with sleep apnea can improve their quality of life and continue to perform well at work.

If you’re struggling with sleep apnea, don’t wait any longer to seek help. The Encino Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders is here to provide you with the specialized care and treatment you need to manage your condition and improve your quality of life. Our team of sleep specialists is dedicated to helping you get the restful sleep you need to feel refreshed and energized during the day. We offer a wide range of treatments, including the latest technology and therapies to help you manage your symptoms and get the relief you need.

Don’t let sleep apnea control your life any longer. Call our Encino, CA, office today at 818-300-0070 to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists. Don’t hesitate to take the first step towards better sleep and a healthier life.

Helping children catch a good night’s sleep: Understanding and managing sleep apnea

Pediatric Sleep Apnea, although uncommon, can still be a troubling condition. There are stark differences between Adult Sleep Apnea and PSA. There are differences in causes and effects. Where adults may be a bit irritable and tired during the day, children may develop behavioral and learning difficulties at school, among many other difficulties.

Causes of Sleep Apnea in Children

Although the most common cause of sleep apnea in adults is excess weight, this is rarely the cause for children. While obesity can be a factor, more often than not, enlarged tonsils or adenoids can cause Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea (POSA) in children.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea in Children

During the night, sleep apnea symptoms may seem very common in sleep apnea:

Snoring
Pauses in breathing
Restless sleep
Nighttime sweating
Bed-wetting
Night terrors

However, during the day, the most noticeable symptoms may be:

Poor grades
Attention difficulties
Learning problems
Behavioral problems
Poor weight gain
Hyperactivity

Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Children

If your child is suffering from sleep apnea, your best bet is to have their throat examined. The most common cause of POSA is oversized tonsils, and your child may need to have them removed. If your child’s sleep apnea is not being caused by an obstruction, we recommend seeing your local sleep dentist.

Don’t Wait to Get Your Child a Good Night’s Sleep

If you suspect your child may have sleep apnea, don’t wait any longer to seek help. Contact our sleep apnea specialist today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a better night’s sleep. Don’t let sleep apnea control your child’s life. Take control of your child’s sleep health now.

Sleep Apnea & Depression

Keep An Eye on Your Mental Health

Sleep apnea can wreak havoc on your life — it causes both physical and mental health issues. At our Encino sleep dentist’s office, we want to make sure your treatment goes seamlessly. But that isn’t always possible. Lack of sleep can be a dangerous thing, and if you aren’t paying attention, serious mental health conditions can sneak up on you.

Effects of Sleep Apnea on the Body

Sleep Apnea occurs when your body stops breathing periodically while you sleep. When you stop breathing, blood oxygen levels are reduced and there’s a strain on your heart and cardiovascular system. People with untreated sleep apnea have an increased risk of hypertension, stroke, diabetes, arrhythmias, depression, reflux, impotence, and more.

Effects of Sleep Apnea on Mental Health

As one can imagine, reduced oxygen to the brain isn’t good for any part of living life. Not only does it have an effect on your physical health, but also on your mental health. Lack of sleep can leave you feeling sluggish and make it difficult to focus on even the smallest of tasks.

All of these effects can leave you at higher risk for depression and other mental health issues such as anxiety.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression can be easy to spot if you are in the depths of it. So if you suffer from sleep apnea, be on the lookout for these symptoms:

Behavioral:

Irritability
Restlessness
Social isolation

Mood:

Apathy
General discontent
Guilt
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Mood swings

Physical:

Dramatic change in appetite
Fatigue

Where to Find Help

At the Encino Center for Sleep Disorders & TMJ, we offer state-of-the-art methods for sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment to help treat your physical health needs. If you feel you are suffering from depression caused by your sleep apnea, we encourage you to seek professional psychiatric treatment.

For sleep apnea treatment, call our Encino office at 818-300-0070 or fill out the online contact form.