Greensboro's African American Community Newspaper since 1967
Sleep is a fundamental pillar of good health, and as you well know, it is one of the major determining factors of longevity. Sleep affects nearly every aspect of our physical and mental well-being. Adequate, restful sleep supports the immune system, improves memory, enhances mood, and helps regulate metabolism. For many people, however, achieving quality sleep is a challenge. Far too many people are having sleep problems. There can be many reasons for this. Far too many people do not understand the benefit of sleep. Others feel that they are just too busy to sleep with work, family and life. Others know they are not getting adequate sleep but do not know how to improve this.
Snoring is a problem for some. They actually awaken themselves with the noise or grasping of air. Others awaken their bed partner or family with the noise. If someone remarks that you stop breathing while sleeping or sound as if there is gasping for air, take the time to check on this.
A sleep study may be in order. It can be used to elucidate undiagnosed sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a common but often overlooked condition in which a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This disruption can result in chronic fatigue, impaired concentration, and increased risk for conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Many individuals live with sleep apnea for years without realizing it, simply attributing their daytime tiredness and other symptoms to stress or aging.
Diagnosing sleep apnea can make a significant difference in a person’s life. There are different types of sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea is when the brain does not give the signal to breath properly. Some medications such as opioids may affect this signal from the brain and it may be seen at high altitudes.
Obstructive sleep apnea can be due to problems in the facial structure and/or obesity. This is when the structures in the airway collapse and the airway is obstructed. Once properly identified, treatment options such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or lifestyle changes such as weight loss can dramatically improve sleep quality. Patients often report feeling more energetic, alert, and emotionally balanced after treatment. Early diagnosis not only helps prevent serious health complications but also enhances overall quality of life, allowing individuals to regain control over their daily activities and well-being.
In summary, prioritizing sleep and seeking medical advice for persistent sleep problems is crucial. Recognizing and diagnosing sleep apnea can be a gamechanger, opening the door to better health, a longer life, a higher quality of life, improved mood, and a more fulfilling life.
Dr. Veita Bland is a board-certified Greensboro physician and hypertension specialist. Dr. Bland’s radio show, “It’s a Matter of Your Health,” can be heard live on Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. on N.C. A&T State University’s WNAA, 90.1 FM. Listeners may call in and ask questions. The show is replayed on Sirius 142 at 5 p.m. on Wed. Email Dr. Bland at ideas@blandclinicpa.com.
