How Sleep Apnea Can Affect Your Relationship

If you have sleep apnea, the first thing you probably think about when pondering your condition is the effect that it has on your sleep—but what about the effect it has on your loved ones? One of the most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea is snoring, which needless to say, can disrupt your partner’s sleep! On top of that, another possible casualty of sleep apnea is physical intimacy. Keep reading to learn more from your sleep dentist in Covington about the negative impact that sleep apnea can have on relationships, along with some ways that the condition can be managed.

The Link Between Sleep Apnea & Relationships

Let’s face it—it’s sometimes impossible to fall asleep if you have a partner who snores loudly! But if obstructive sleep apnea is the cause of this snoring and accompanying sleep disruption, it can take a toll on the overall well-being of the relationship. Sleep apnea can impact relationships in the following ways:

• Lack of sleep – If you and your partner share a bed, needless to say, there’s a good chance their snoring keeps you up at night! Snoring often results when the soft tissues in your throat and sinuses vibrate as air squeezes past on the way to your lungs. When these tissues block your airway, the sound intensifies.
• Sleeping separately – Some partners resort to sleeping in separate beds due to one of them having sleep apnea. According to research, sleeping with your partner promotes many health benefits, such as lowered stress hormones, increasing the amount of oxytocin released (which helps with digestion), increased warmth, and lower blood pressure.
• Less intimacy – A side effect that men suffering from sleep apnea sometimes experience is erectile dysfunction, which can directly and negatively impact physical intimacy.

How Sleep Apnea Can Be Managed

Fortunately, sleep apnea can be effectively managed with the help of your sleep dentist in Covington! One of the most popular methods is the use of a CPAP machine—this involves a face mask that is worn over the mouth and nose that regulates your breathing during sleep.

Another effective means of managing sleep apnea is through the use of custom fitted oral appliances. These are usually mouthguards that are designed to hold your jaw forward during sleep, so that your airway remains unobstructed. Better yet, these devices are comfortable, easy-to-clean, and very portable!

Your relationship shouldn’t have to suffer because of your sleep apnea. The condition can easily be managed if you seek treatment—and by doing so, you’re also promoting a healthy relationship moving forward!

About the Author

Dr. Stephen Dean received his dental doctorate from the Medical University of South Carolina and is a proud member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. His practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of sleep apnea treatments. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, you can contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (770) 710-5268.