How Sleep Apnea Can Seriously Impact Your Relationship

Sleep apnea is a condition that affects millions of Americans. Its most noticeable side effects are loud snoring, daytime lethargy and irritability. However, there are other inconveniences associated with sleep apnea that can have a serious impact on relationships, including lost libido, sexual dysfunction and other hinderances. Continue reading to learn more about the effects sleep apnea can have on couples.

How Sleep Apnea Can Impact Intimacy

Studies show that men are two to three times more likely to suffer from sleep apnea than women. It can take a toll on their sex life, as sleep apnea has been linked to increased blood pressure, erectile dysfunction and decreased sex drive.

While further research is needed to determine any direct connections, a recent study shows that nearly half of men over 40 suffer from erectile dysfunction. Of the 2,500 men involved in the study, one in five were divorced, while one in 10 were on the verge of their relationship dissolving.

One way to counteract any sexual dysfunctions is to seek treatment for sleep apnea. The most well-known method of treating the condition is with a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, but is it the most effective way to go about it?

Problems Associated with the CPAP Machine

Sleep apnea treatment with a CPAP machine consists of wearing a mask and tube that connects to a base unit. While it’s an effective way of treating sleep apnea, the CPAP machine can be rather loud and disruptive when worn.

This can force your partner to sleep in another room, which can nullify many of the health benefits of sleeping together. Research shows that when a couple sleeps in the same bed, it helps to lower stress hormones, increase oxytocin (a healthy hormone that promotes better digestion) and lower blood pressure.

A Better Way to Treat Sleep Apnea

Thankfully, there is a more convenient way to treat sleep apnea and boost your sex life. It involves wearing a custom oral appliance. Instead of a loud, cumbersome and uncomfortable machine, the oral appliance fits comfortably in your mouth and gently shifts your jaw forward to allow for better airflow while you sleep.

Here are some of the other benefits of using an oral appliance:

• It’s easy to clean and maintain.
• It’s simple to store and transport when traveling.
• It’s much more attractive than wearing a mask that covers your face.

If your relationship and sex life have been affected by your sleep apnea, then it’s worth looking into treatment with an oral appliance. Along with adding some spice to your nightlife, it will boost your overall health.

About the Author

Dr. David G. Crescenzo earned his dental degree from Georgetown Dental School. For nearly 30 years, he has been changing lives through dentistry. A consummate learner, Dr. Crescenzo continues to receive advanced postgraduate training, and he maintains professional affiliation with the Academy of General Dentistry and other organizations. He treats sleep apnea with custom oral appliances at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.