The inability to pay attention because of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often a chronic condition that affects children and adults. Not only can it negatively affect a child’s ability to function at school, but it can also make completing projects at work increasingly difficult. It has also been discovered that those who suffer from ADHD are more likely to develop sleep apnea. But what is the common link? Read on to discover how the two are connected and what steps can be taken to improve your sleep patterns and ability to focus.
ADHD & Sleep Apnea: What’s the Connection?
When living with ADHD, it can be hard to determine if sleep apnea really exists because many of the symptoms are similar. Forgetfulness, inability to concentrate and focus, insomnia, and others are evident in both conditions.
Many researchers have found that sleep problems often increase the older a child or adult gets, but the type of ADHD a person has can determine what kind of sleep issues they develop. For example, those who struggle with inattentiveness may go to bed later, and those who have more hyperactive symptoms may suffer from insomnia.
It’s also possible that a stimulant medication can make it harder for individuals to fall asleep, resulting in fatigue the following day.
What differentiates the two is that sleep apnea often causes breaks in breathing. When a person stops receiving adequate airflow because of an obstruction, it leads to frequent interruptions throughout the night. The individual will suddenly wake up and begin gasping for air. The more this happens, the greater the chances of sleep deprivation, which can exacerbate symptoms of ADHD.
What Kinds of Treatment Are Available for Sleep Apnea?
If you or your child are diagnosed with sleep apnea, it’s important that appropriate treatment be provided. Children are more likely to be evaluated based on whether they have enlarged adenoids or tonsils that may be creating a blockage. If so, surgery may be the recommended course of action.
Additionally, it may also be helpful to make changes to your child’s bedtime routine. If they take a stimulant for their ADHD, talk to their doctor about adjusting the dosage or timing of the medication so it doesn’t interfere with their ability to go to sleep. You can also limit screen time, establish a consistent bedtime schedule, eliminate caffeine, and keep their bedroom dark with blackout curtains.
Adults, however, may benefit from a custom-made oral appliance that fits comfortably inside the mouth so the throat muscles do not fall back onto the airway. The addition of a sleep device can be helpful when combined with a more consistent bedtime routine.
By seeking treatment for sleep apnea, you and your child can get much-needed rest while better managing the symptoms of ADHD.
About the Practice
Star Sleep & Wellness in Dallas consists of highly trained professionals who specialize in treating sleep apnea, snoring, and other related sleep disorders. Patients who struggle with ADHD can come to our office to undergo a formal study to determine if treatment is necessary. Our team of experts will work to identify the underlying cause and how best to move forward in managing symptoms caused by ADHD while also improving a person’s sleep quality. Contact us to find out how our team can help.