Sleep Apnea an Undiagnosed Nightmare for Workers
Sleep deprivation is a serious problem in the workplace. According to the National Sleep Foundation, over half of adults report that sleepiness makes it hard to concentrate, solve problems and make decisions at work.
Those who complain of excessive daytime sleepiness, headaches in the morning, irritability, mood swings, inability to concentrate, and/or forgetfulness may have sleep apnea, according to Lorielle H. Parvin, RPSGT and Clinical Specialist at Mission Hospitals Sleep Center. "And if their family history consists of heart disease, they may be at increased risk," she adds.
"These folks start feeling this way as they approach and pass age 40," says Parvin. "They think they're tired because they're getting older and it should be expected. But millions of people are walking around with undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnea, which can contribute to congestive heart failure, hypertension, stroke, diabetes and an unsafe work environment."
There are three types of Sleep Apnea: Obstructive, Central, and Mixed. All three types, and their respective sub-groups, have a high potential to wake a person from sleep. These arousals cause a lack of consolidated sleep which makes for a tired worker the next day. "These constant interruptions do not allow the patient to obtain the amount of deep sleep and REM (dream) sleep that he needs to restore himself," says Parvin. "Sleep Apnea or other sleep disorders generally will not go away without proper diagnosis and treatment."
Since 1985, Mission's Sleep Center has provided service in the evaluation and treatment of all types of sleep disorders. The 16-bed center is one of approximately 600 sleep programs accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine in the United States and features a certified staff of physicians and technologists trained in sleep medicine for adults and children.
Sleep disorders include more than sleep apnea and fortunately, the most prevalent and severe sleep disorders are usually very responsive to treatment. To be evaluated for a sleep disorder or to learn more about Mission's Sleep Center, call 828-213-4670.
For more information about sleep disorders visit The National Sleep Foundation website: www.sleepfoundation.org or call: 202-347-3471.
Sleep Tips!
During the day:
-
Avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine
-
Exercise, but not too close to bedtime
-
Avoid naps
-
Establish a regular bedtime routine
About an hour before going to bed:
-
Engage in a relaxing, non-alerting activity
-
Do not drink or eat too much
-
Maintain a quiet, dark and preferably cool, but comfortable sleep environment
Note: Sleep Apnea is a genetic disease, although obesity exacerbates the disorder.
