The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Erectile Dysfunction

Posted: November 22, 2019

Sleep apnea can cause many different symptoms. Most people associate the condition with snoring. However, it’s actually a much larger problem. For example, some lesser known signs of sleep apnea are headaches and waking up at night to urinate. The discomfort of this condition can take a toll on you mentally and physically. In addition, sleep apnea may also be linked to erectile dysfunction. To get the most out of life, you may need sleep apnea help from your doctor.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is when your sleep is disrupted by pauses in your breathing. This is often marked by a sound similar to snorting or choking. Also, sufferers may find themselves waking up gasping for air. These sounds may annoy your partner, which is a common reason that men realize they might have sleep apnea. However, the condition is much more serious than waking up your partner.

The momentary break in breathing can actually interrupt the flow of oxygen throughout your body and deprive vital organs like your brain and heart. That is why it’s important to seek sleep apnea treatment if you are suffering from this condition.

Sleep apnea can also cause many other issues. Some of the most common symptoms are:

• Fatigue
• Snoring
• Insomnia
• Irritability

Sleep apnea can have negative impacts on your life. For example, if you are fatigued or experiencing insomnia, it can be difficult to engage in things like exercise, sports, or other entertainments. This is one of the many reasons you should seek out sleep apnea help if you think you’re experiencing this condition.

Sleep Apnea and Erectile Dysfunction

Many men with sleep apnea experience erectile dysfunction as well. While ED isn’t necessarily caused by sleep apnea, some of the symptoms could contribute to the condition. There are a few different theories about why there are such high rates of ED for those suffering from sleep apnea. One is that sleep deprivation causes fatigue and stress. These symptoms, whether caused by sleep apnea or something else, can worsen erectile dysfunction.

Another theory is that sleep deprivation can reduce testosterone levels. Men’s bodies typically produce testosterone while they sleep. However, if sleep is interrupted by sleep apnea, it could affect the amount of testosterone your body is able to create. Low testosterone may cause symptoms like low libido. Therefore, this is another possible link between sleep apnea and erectile dysfunction.

Undoubtedly, getting a good night’s sleep is important for your mental, physical, and sexual health. There are convenient and comfortable solutions for sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment. If you think you are suffering from sleep apnea, make sure you get checked out by a physician.

Sleep Apnea Diagnosis

A comprehensive men’s health assessment will help your doctor determine if you need to be tested for sleep apnea. We use a health questionnaire to help determine possible concerns. For example, to screen for sleep apnea we use what is called a STOPBANG questionnaire. STOPBANG is an acronym for the following sleep apnea symptoms:

• Snoring
• Tiredness
• Observed Apnea
• Blood Pressure
• BMI
• Age
• Neck Circumference
• Gender

This tool allows us to evaluate your risk factors for sleep apnea and help your physician know if a prescribing a sleep test would be beneficial to your health.

During your visit, you should tell your doctor about your symptoms. If your physician thinks you might be suffering from sleep apnea, we will have you take what is known as a sleep test.

In the past, these tests meant patients had to sleep in a clinic or lab for a sleep study. They would then be watched during the night to monitor their breathing. However, this sleep test method can often be less effective, as it is difficult to stick to your normal routine in a strange place. Additionally, it can be uncomfortable to sleep in a different bed and be away from home at night. There were also problems with running out of beds in these sleep centers. Oftentimes, there was quite a delay in being able to do a sleep test.

Physicians can diagnose sleep issues with a home sleep test. This is carried out in your own home. Therefore, it is quick, convenient, and comfortable. Your physician will give you the equipment and easy to follow instructions. Then, you sleep in your own bed as you would normally. Finally, the equipment records data for your sleep doctor. From there, your doctor can determine whether you have sleep apnea and can help you create a customized treatment plan.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Once you have been diagnosed, you and your doctor will work together to create a sleep apnea treatment plan. There are two approaches to treating sleep apnea: CPAP devices and lifestyle changes.

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices create air pressure in your throat to keep airways open during sleep. After a short adjustment process, people typically have much better sleep. A good night’s rest has major positive impacts on men’s health management and can help resolve your unwanted symptoms.

On the other hand, there are certain lifestyle changes that can help and are often paired with a CPAP device. Maintaining a healthy weight and sleeping on your side or stomach can help your sleep apnea symptoms. In addition, avoiding relaxants like alcohol or sleeping pills can also significantly improve symptoms. These substances can actually make sleep apnea worse because they make your throat muscles more relaxed.

There are many benefits to getting sleep apnea help. Typically you can significantly improve your quality of life. Because sleep is so vital to your happiness and your body’s performance, you should take steps to ensure you get quality sleep every night, whether you have sleep apnea or not. Receiving sleep apnea treatment can help you feel better. You don’t have to tolerate being constantly tired, irritable and mentally foggy. Schedule a men’s health assessment to discuss your symptoms and receive help.

You don’t have to miss out on feeling your best just because of sleep apnea. If you are experiencing sleep apnea symptoms, the physicians at Low T Sleep Center may be able to help. We offer comfortable and convenient at home sleep tests and can work with you to find the right treatment plan for you. Take the first step toward feeling better today, make an appointment online with Low T Center.

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Disclaimer: This article is made available for general, entertainment and educational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Low T Center. You should always seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.