Sleep apnea affects sexual function in women.
I totally snore and I don't personally have any of these side effects, but I could see how in general not being well rested can affect your sex drive or *function* as the article so clinically puts it.
A new study shows that undiagnosed sleep apnea , a common disorder associated with snoring, may decrease women's sexual function by reducing sexual desire, sensation, and lubrication, as well as negatively affecting their relationship with their partner.Sleep apnea occurs when breathing regularly stops during sleep for 10 seconds or longer due to an obstruction or narrowing of the airway in the nose, mouth, or throat. This causes symptoms including snoring and loss of sleep.
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I've lived with people who had sleep apnea, and it's pretty scary to listen to them snore, then stop breathing, then stuggle to take the next breath.
Apparently this happens hundreds of times a night, and no wonder dysfunction ensues. Virtually no sleep at all.
A machine called a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) seems to be the correct - albeit clumsy - solution. A mask is worn over the nose and mouth and humidified air is blown from the machine through a tube into the mask and down the throat, keeping the soft palate from collapsing. My former boss likened the results to a miracle. My former wife didn't use it, and she suffered a lot.
The actual price for sleep apnea can be really steep, including heart damage.
Thanks for posting about this problem.
I was diagnosed with Sleep apnea in 1988 and I have worn a cpap almost every night since. I can truely say that it changed my life. I would not have had the energy or possitive outlook to do any of the things I have accomplished in my life without it. It is the most wonderful life changing thing I have ever done.
I recommend that everyone who snores get a sleep study done. its easy and it can change your life.
The health problems from apnia are very serious. Low O2 levels in your blood for extended time periods can cause incredible long term dammmage.