Sleep disordered breathing is anyone who has long pauses in breathing while sleeping or loud snoring at night. These disorders affect about 60% of the elderly population. This study is the first of its kind that provides strong evidence that sleep apnea and sleep disorders could be a CAUSE rather than an effect of dementia.
The limitation in this study is that it only involved women, and the average age was 82. But it’s highly likely that the results would apply to men as well. If you deprive yourself of oxygen while sleeping, it will stress your cardiovascular system as your heart and lungs try to make up for oxygen debt.
Sleep apnea is very treatable and it can make a significant difference in how you feel and in your overall health.
Research has shown many health risks associated with sleep apnea which includes hypertension, heart attack, insulin resistance, diabetes, depression, mood disorders, fatigue, memory loss, chronic pain, restless leg syndrome, and asthma.
Whew…thats enough of a list to consider getting tested.
See your health practitioner if you have sleep problems. Don’t feel like you need to put up with less sleep or stay dependent on sleep medications. Treatment may help prevent a variety of symptoms and diseases, including dementia.
Sleep Apnea May Increase Risk of Dementia: “”
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