A 2012 study published in the Journal SLEEP shows that women suffering from sleep apnea have a higher degree of brain damage as compared to men, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects
women very differently from men.
Most of the brain studies done on sleep apnea and its impact on one’s health were typically focused on men or combined groups of men and women rather than women as a group of their own. The study elucidated that women are more affected by sleep apnea than men and women, and experience more severe brain damage than men by comparing nerve fibers in a patient’s brain or white matter to those without any sleep problems and the difference in brain damage between men and women with sleep apnea. The cingulum bundle and anterior cingulate cortex areas where decision-making and mood regulation are done were impacted the most, and women with sleep apnea showed higher levels of depression and anxiety symptoms. Therefore, medical physicians should be aware that sleep disorders may be more serious and require earlier treatment for women than men.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of sleep apnea such as snoring, daytime sleepiness, irritability, and low energy, it is important to consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis early and the underlying issue of the cause of sleep apnea. Depending on your financial situation and sleep apnea condition, the doctor will work through with you the type of sleep apnea test in the comfort of your home or an in-lab sleep test to determine the precise nature of your condition to avoid any long-term issues. Besides most insurance companies now pay for sleep testing and CPAP OSA treatment, early intervention with a sleep apnea device can stop snoring or one can a sleep apnea CPAP trial from the equipment supplier or distributor that distributes a range of sleep apnea machines and CPAP supplies for a better quality of sleep and healthier overall well-being.
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