Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and sleep apnea are two seemingly unrelated conditions that can, in fact, share a significant connection. While ADHD is widely recognized for symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, many people don’t realize that sleep disturbances, particularly sleep apnea, can mimic or even worsen these symptoms. Understanding the link between the two is important for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and overall well-being.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the airway becomes blocked by relaxed throat muscles. This leads to poor sleep quality, frequent nighttime awakenings, and a lack of oxygen reaching the brain.
Symptoms include:
- Loud snoring.
- Gasping or choking during sleep.
- Morning headaches.
- Excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Difficulty concentrating.
Sleep apnea affects both adults and children and often goes undiagnosed because many people don’t realize their sleep is being interrupted.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, behavior, and emotional regulation. It typically begins in childhood and may persist into adulthood. Common symptoms include:
- Trouble focusing.
- Hyperactivity or restlessness.
- Impulsivity.
- Forgetfulness.
- Disorganization.
These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, school, work, and relationships.
How Are Sleep Apnea and ADHD Connected?
Several studies have shown a strong link between sleep apnea and ADHD, especially in children. The relationship is complex and bidirectional:
Sleep Apnea Can Mimic ADHD Symptoms
When a person isn’t getting restful sleep, the brain struggles to focus, regulate mood, and manage impulses. In children, sleep deprivation often manifests as hyperactivity and inattentiveness, which closely resemble ADHD. In fact, some children diagnosed with ADHD may actually have an underlying sleep disorder like OSA.
ADHD Can Worsen Sleep Quality
On the flip side, individuals with ADHD often struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep due to a racing mind, poor sleep routines, or coexisting anxiety. This fragmented sleep can further impair attention and emotional control, creating a cycle of worsening symptoms.
Shared Risk Factors and Brain Mechanisms
Both conditions are associated with similar brain regions, such as the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for attention and executive function. There may also be a shared genetic component or overlapping neurological pathways.
What You Can Do
If you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD and also experiences signs of poor sleep, it’s worth investigating the possibility of sleep apnea. Talk to your healthcare provider about symptoms like snoring, gasping during sleep, or chronic fatigue. Consider a sleep study (polysomnography) to get a clear diagnosis. Treat sleep apnea if present, which may include lifestyle changes, a CPAP machine, or in children, removal of the tonsils and adenoids.
Many people see dramatic improvements in focus, mood, and energy once their sleep issues are addressed, even if they were previously diagnosed with ADHD.
Sleep apnea and ADHD can look strikingly similar and often overlap. By understanding this connection, you can better advocate for proper diagnosis and treatment. Sometimes, a good night’s sleep is the missing piece in managing attention, behavior, and overall mental health.
About the Practice
Do you suspect that sleep apnea is robbing you of quality sleep – and in turn – creating difficulties in areas like work and relationships? At Hyland Dental, we can treat sleep apnea with customized oral appliances to help you get to sleep and stay that way. Dr. Amanda Hyland is specialized in sleep apnea training, so you can rest assured that you’re getting service from a professional with years of experience in the field. Ready to take your slumber back? Schedule an appointment online or call (507) 387-3249.