Does obstructive sleep apnea impact serious mental illnesses?

Yes, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is more common in those with serious mental illness than the general population. It is a medical condition that must be treated in parallel with any mental illness. Risk factors include obesity, male gender, and alcohol consumption at bed time. Nocturnal symptoms may include: Choking and Gasping, Reflux Symptoms, Restless Sleep, Snoring, and Witnessed Apnea. Daytime symptoms may include: Cognitive Dysfunction, Dry Mouth Upon Waking, Morning Headaches, Poor Concentration, and Sleepiness. In some cases, OSA can look very similar to depression and once the OSA is treated – the symptoms of depression may be much less. OSA is treatable and a diagnosis of OSA requires specialized testing

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