Can’t Focus? Learn Why Sleep Apnea Treatment is Important When Living with ADHD

If you or your child suffer from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you know how difficult it can be to focus. Combine the symptoms of ADHD with sleep apnea, and the continuous cycle of fatigue can lead to additional problems at school, work, and within social and professional gatherings. But living with this current situation doesn’t have to be a long-term reality. Instead, with the help of a trusted sleep dentist, you or your loved one can take back control of your life once and for all. Keep reading to discover the benefits of sleep apnea treatment, especially as it pertains to ADHD.

How Does ADHD Affect Sleep and Vice Versa?

Researchers have found that a person’s sleep problems can ultimately be determined by the type of ADHD they have. Because this brain disorder causes forgetfulness, the inability to focus, and impulsive behavior, getting to bed at a “normal time” is often difficult.

Those who struggle with attentiveness may struggle with staying up too late, while those who exhibit impulse behavior may suffer from insomnia. No matter which one you battle each night, the result is the same – chronic fatigue or sleep deprivation.

Without an adequate amount of rest, ADHD symptoms may become more prominent and difficult to manage. Not to mention, because both disorders have similar indicators, many patients are misdiagnosed. Studies suggest that those living with ADHD may have a harder time getting necessary sleep because of impaired alertness or a delayed circadian rhythm, although more research is needed.

What Kind of Impact Can Sleep Apnea Treatment Have on ADHD?

If you notice that you or your child have difficulty getting sufficient rest, it’s important to seek the help of a sleep dentist. This individual will possess the advanced training and qualifications to provide safe and effective treatment for sleep apnea.

An in-lab or at-home test will be required before a formal diagnosis is provided; however, once it is confirmed that you do have sleep apnea, they will develop a personalized treatment plan. The decision to move forward with CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy (OAT), surgery, or a combined approach (CPAP and oral appliance) will not be based solely on addressing your symptoms. It will also consider your ADHD so that a more comprehensive approach is provided.

In addition to sleep apnea treatment, an expert might also recommend certain lifestyle changes, such as:

• Increasing daily exercise
• Avoiding screens before bedtime
• Taking a warm bath before bed
• Avoiding caffeine
• Installing blackout curtains or limiting the amount of light that appears in the bedroom at night
• Keeping a normal bedtime routine

There is a level of responsibility and commitment that is required to ensure successful results when seeking sleep apnea treatment. However, by sticking to these tips and talking with a trusted professional, you will begin to notice a positive difference in how you manage your ADHD and the quality of rest you get each night.

About the Practice
Sleep Dallas is designed to provide patients with safe and effective solutions to help address sleep apnea symptoms as well as improve their overall quality of life. Consisting of various sleep experts and specialists, we take a comprehensive approach so that individuals not only experience better rest but also a noticeable improvement in their health and well-being. Contact us today to find out how we can help.