Posted: November 14, 2024
Sleep apnea, a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, has long been associated with risks like heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. But in recent years, the rise of remote work and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have caused a surge in sleep apnea cases. These changes in lifestyle, along with increased stress and altered daily routines, have exacerbated existing sleep issues, leading many people to experience symptoms of sleep apnea for the first time.
Remote Work and Sleep Apnea
As millions of workers transitioned to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us found ourselves spending more time at home. While this shift offered flexibility, it also created new challenges for managing overall health, including sleep quality. One of the unexpected consequences of working from home is the impact on sleep hygiene.
Without the structure of commuting and a more regimented daily routine, many people started to experience disrupted sleep schedules. Staying up late to finish work tasks, engaging in late-night screen time, or dealing with increased work-related stress led to poor sleep patterns. These factors can trigger or worsen sleep apnea, a condition that already disrupts breathing during sleep.
The Effects of Sleep Apnea on Your Health
Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring or a poor night’s sleep. Untreated sleep apnea can have serious consequences on your overall health. Repeated interruptions in breathing can lead to a lack of oxygen, which places a strain on the cardiovascular system. This can result in high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, an increased risk of diabetes, and additional cognitive issues.
Increased Stress and Anxiety Leading to Poor Sleep
Along with the rise of remote work, the stress and uncertainty surrounding the pandemic have also played a significant role in sleep disturbances. Anxiety, depression, and stress are known to exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms, as they can lead to increased muscle tension, irregular breathing patterns, and a higher likelihood of snoring.
For many, the stress of the pandemic combined with the inability to leave home created a perfect storm for sleep issues. This led to more people experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea such as loud snoring, choking during sleep, and constant fatigue during the day. In fact, research has shown that stress can cause the airway to constrict, making it more difficult to breathe properly while sleeping, which increases the severity of sleep apnea.
4 Ways to Address Sleep Apnea in the Modern World
The good news is that sleep apnea is treatable. While lifestyle changes such as improving sleep hygiene and managing stress can help, seeking professional treatment is crucial to address the root causes of sleep apnea.
Oral Appliances
Dentists can provide custom-made oral appliances, which help reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. These devices are a non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines and can be especially helpful for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.
CPAP Therapy
For more severe cases, a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine can provide continuous airflow to keep the airway open throughout the night. A healthcare provider can help determine which treatment is best suited to your condition.
Lifestyle Changes
Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bedtime, and sleeping on your side instead of your back can significantly improve sleep apnea symptoms. Additionally, establishing a consistent sleep routine and reducing screen time before bed can promote better quality sleep.
Stress Management
Since stress is a major contributor to sleep apnea, incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help alleviate symptoms and improve sleep quality.
Schedule a Consultation
The shift to remote work and the stress caused by the pandemic have brought about an increase in sleep apnea cases. The disruption of sleep routines, combined with heightened stress and anxiety, has made it more difficult for many to get the restful, uninterrupted sleep they need. However, sleep apnea is treatable, and by seeking professional help and making necessary lifestyle adjustments, you can improve your sleep quality and overall health.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our office via our contact form or call 403-407-5730.
*all procedures at our practice are performed by a general dentist
