Waking up to find a damp spot on your sheets can be an embarrassing experience, especially for adults who thought their bedwetting days were long behind them. If it happens occasionally, it might not be a cause for concern. However, frequent bedwetting can be a sign of a more serious issue – sleep apnea. Understanding this connection can help you address the underlying health problems effectively.
The Link Between Bedwetting and Sleep Apnea
Bedwetting is not commonly associated with adults, but it can be a symptom of untreated sleep apnea. Those with sleep apnea may need to urinate frequently during the night, sometimes as many as six or more times. This frequent urination is due to decreased oxygen levels in your blood caused by interrupted breathing.
When your breathing stops, carbon dioxide levels rise, the heart rate drops, and the blood becomes more acidic. Your brain, detecting something amiss, wakes you up abruptly. This sudden awakening accelerates your heart rate, sending a false signal to your body that you have an overload of fluids, prompting the need to urinate.
How to Stop Bedwetting Linked to Sleep Apnea
The key to stopping bedwetting associated with sleep apnea is to treat the sleep disorder itself. Once it’s managed, the bedwetting usually stops. Treating sleep apnea not only resolves bedwetting but also protects your body from other serious health risks such as heart problems and strokes. To address sleep apnea effectively, a proper diagnosis is necessary. A sleep dentist can then recommend treatments like oral appliance therapy or other appropriate solutions.
Reducing Sleep Apnea Symptoms
While professional treatment is crucial for managing sleep apnea, you can also take steps to alleviate its symptoms, including bedwetting. Here are some tips to improve the quality of your sleep:
- Lose Weight – Obesity is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea. Shedding excess pounds can reduce symptoms.
- Change Your Sleep Position – Sleeping on your side can help keep your airway open during the night.
- Exercise Regularly – Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, even if it’s a simple activity like brisk walking.
Bedwetting and snoring, while embarrassing, are important warning signs. If you experience these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a sleep expert promptly for a diagnosis.
About the Practice
At Star Sleep & Wellness in Dallas, our team includes a sleep dentist, sleep physicians, nurse practitioners, and a licensed psychologist. If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, we’re here to help you find the answers you need. To learn more about sleep apnea or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call us at (469) 331-5505.