However, the researchers stressed that sleep disorders don’t raise the risk for infection. This study is essential because it helps recognize another group of people at risk for more severe symptoms and helps put resources and assets where needed.
As the pandemic continues and the disease evolves, it’s essential to enhance our ability to project or forecast who will get sick and how severe their symptoms might be.
The Reason Behind It
It is still unknown why people with sleep disorders are at a higher risk for developing severe COVID-19 symptoms. However, researchers believe that inflammation could play a significant role.
Sleep disorders are associated with chronic inflammation, which increases the risk of developing severe health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The same may be true for COVID-19.
People who develop severe infection of the disease seem to have more inflammation because of cytokine release syndrome. It refers to the release of cytokines, which are molecules that help regulate the immune system.
When sleep is disturbed, cytokine production increases, which could lead to more severe symptoms, such as injury to organs, in people with sleep disorders.
What’s more, researchers also correlated low blood oxygen levels and higher white blood cell counts as an indication of inflammation in people with COVID-19.
Treatment For People With Sleep Disorders And COVID-19
For someone with sleep disorders, their breathing stops and starts throughout their sleep. Not only once but multiple times. Plus, it’s sometimes accompanied by snorting sounds or gasping.
Hospitals treat COVID-19 patients with sleep disorders using positive airway pressure (PAP) during sleep. This machine helps keep the airways open and pumps pressurized air into the lungs while you sleep, allowing normal breathing while sleeping.
It’s not a cure, but it can help improve the quality of life for those with sleep disorders and COVID-19.
Funding or monetary support for continued research is vital to assess the impact of sleep disorders on risk for severe COVID-19 cases. Lack of treatment and awareness for sleep disorders may lead to more severe virus cases.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders undoubtedly change the way you sleep. It affects your quality of life, safety, and overall health. Some of the symptoms and signs of sleep disorders include:
Having trouble falling asleep at night and being very sleepy during the daytime
Sleeping at inappropriate times, like while driving or suddenly falling asleep during the day
Unusual breathing pattern
Irregular wake cycle and sleep
An uncomfortable urge or sensation to move the legs during sleep
These symptoms and signs can vary from person to person, and remember that sleep disorders are not just a minor inconvenience. They can lead to health problems down the road if left untreated. So, it is crucial to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of them.
Your health insurance will generally cover the diagnosis and treatment of most sleep disorders. If you don’t have insurance yet, compare plans at Assurance health insurance.
Who’s More Likely To Have A Sleep Disorder?
Sleep disorders are common and can affect anyone at any time. In fact, about 70 million people in the U.S. suffer from it. However, some people are more likely to experience a sleep disorder than others. Teens, for example, are more likely to have a sleep disorder than adults. It’s because their bodies and brains are still developing, and they may not be getting the right amount of sleep.
People with mental health conditions are also more likely to have a sleep disorder. Conditions like anxiety and depression can make it hard to get a good night’s sleep. Some people with these conditions may also have insomnia.
Other groups of people who are more likely to have a sleep disorder include shift workers, pregnant women, and people who are obese. Also, studies suggest that women are more likely to have a sleep disorder than men.
If you fall into one of these groups, it’s essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a sleep disorder and seek help if needed.
Conclusion
As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases continues to rise worldwide, experts are increasingly looking at all possible ways that the virus can spread and cause harm. A new study suggests that sleep disorders may play a role in making the virus more severe. People with sleep disorders and are infected with the disease may be at a higher risk for more severe health complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, and even death.
Alaska Sleep Clinic is the state’s most comprehensive sleep lab.Call us today @ 907-420-0540 to improve your sleep and life.
