However the researchers stressed that sleep disorders dont raise the risk for infection This study is essential because it helps recognize another group of people at risk for more severe symptoms and helps put resources and assets where needed
As the pandemic continues and the disease evolves its essential to enhance our ability to project or forecast who will get sick and how severe their symptoms might be
The Reason Behind It
It is still unknown why people with sleep disorders are at a higher risk for developing severe COVID 19 symptoms However researchers believe that inflammation could play a significant role
Sleep disorders are associated with chronic inflammation which increases the risk of developing severe health conditions such as heart disease stroke and diabetes The same may be true for COVID 19
People who develop severe infection of the disease seem to have more inflammation because of cytokine release syndrome It refers to the release of cytokines which are molecules that help regulate the immune system
When sleep is disturbed cytokine production increases which could lead to more severe symptoms such as injury to organs in people with sleep disorders
Whats more researchers also correlated low blood oxygen levels and higher white blood cell counts as an indication of inflammation in people with COVID 19
Treatment For People With Sleep Disorders And COVID 19
For someone with sleep disorders their breathing stops and starts throughout their sleep Not only once but multiple times Plus its sometimes accompanied by snorting sounds or gasping
Hospitals treat COVID 19 patients with sleep disorders using positive airway pressure PAP during sleep This machine helps keep the airways open and pumps pressurized air into the lungs while you sleep allowing normal breathing while sleeping
Its not a cure but it can help improve the quality of life for those with sleep disorders and COVID 19
Funding or monetary support for continued research is vital to assess the impact of sleep disorders on risk for severe COVID 19 cases Lack of treatment and awareness for sleep disorders may lead to more severe virus cases
Common Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders undoubtedly change the way you sleep It affects your quality of life safety and overall health Some of the symptoms and signs of sleep disorders include
Having trouble falling asleep at night and being very sleepy during the daytime
Sleeping at inappropriate times like while driving or suddenly falling asleep during the day
Unusual breathing pattern
Irregular wake cycle and sleep
An uncomfortable urge or sensation to move the legs during sleep
These symptoms and signs can vary from person to person and remember that sleep disorders are not just a minor inconvenience They can lead to health problems down the road if left untreated So it is crucial to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of them
Your health insurance will generally cover the diagnosis and treatment of most sleep disorders If you dont have insurance yet compare plans at Assurance health insurance
Whos More Likely To Have A Sleep Disorder
Sleep disorders are common and can affect anyone at any time In fact about 70 million people in the US suffer from it However some people are more likely to experience a sleep disorder than others Teens for example are more likely to have a sleep disorder than adults Its because their bodies and brains are still developing and they may not be getting the right amount of sleep
People with mental health conditions are also more likely to have a sleep disorder Conditions like anxiety and depression can make it hard to get a good nights sleep Some people with these conditions may also have insomnia
Other groups of people who are more likely to have a sleep disorder include shift workers pregnant women and people who are obese Also studies suggest that women are more likely to have a sleep disorder than men
If you fall into one of these groups its essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a sleep disorder and seek help if needed
Conclusion
As the number of confirmed COVID 19 cases continues to rise worldwide experts are increasingly looking at all possible ways that the virus can spread and cause harm A new study suggests that sleep disorders may play a role in making the virus more severe People with sleep disorders and are infected with the disease may be at a higher risk for more severe health complications such as pneumonia respiratory failure and even death
Alaska Sleep Clinic is the states most comprehensive sleep labCall us today 907 420 0540 to improve your sleep and life
