Some of the latest research indicates that about 50 to 75% of those with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) also suffer from sleep apnea. It’s important to talk to a professional sleep specialist who can rightly diagnose your condition. This is the only way to get the treatment you need. The best way to avoid a misdiagnosis is to undergo a sleep study. Without a proper diagnosis, it’s possible to try treating ADHD symptoms that are actually caused by sleep apnea, especially since the symptoms are so similar. Dr. Bogrow can make a professional assessment so that proper treatment can be given so the symptoms you are experiencing can be reduced.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea and ADHD

Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD include:

· Forgetfulness

· Impulsivity

·  Inability to focus

·  Irritability

·  Easily distracted

·  Disorganization

The thing is, these symptoms are very similar to those caused by sleep apnea including the lack of focus, irritability, and feeling like you have no energy. Since these symptoms overlap, misdiagnoses are common. Dr. Bogrow recommends a sleep study if you or a loved one experience a few ADHD symptoms.

Sometimes patients suffer from both ADHD and sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can aggravate the symptoms of ADHD. When you suffer from ADHD, a lack of sleep can cause more anxiety in particular. Children and adults who don’t get good sleep will react differently. A child who doesn’t get adequate sleep will become hyper in most cases. Adults, however, become fatigued.

Why a sleep study?

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat collapse and block the airway. When you stop breathing, sleep is disrupted. Every time an apnea occurs, you stop breathing, and your body sacrifices energy. Even if you sleep eight hours each night, if you are having apnea episodes during the night you can feel tired and find it difficult to concentrate throughout the day. If you or your loved one suffers from sleep apnea, ADHD medications will not help alleviate symptoms effectively. A Michigan Sleep Apnea Center sleep specialist can test for and diagnose sleep apnea. Once you receive the proper diagnosis and treatment, symptoms should lessen.

What happens if Dr. Bogrow finds I am suffering from sleep apnea?

If Dr. Bogrow diagnoses you with obstructive sleep apnea, he will prescribe appropriate sleep apnea treatment. You may benefit from using a CPAP device that provides continuous pressure in the airway to keep it open while you sleep. This will keep your breathing from stopping while you are sleeping. Or, you may be prescribed an oral appliance that fits in your mouth similar to a mouthguard. It will reposition your lower jaw forward so your airway remains open during sleep.

You can start by taking this free sleep apnea assessment on the Michigan Sleep Apnea Center website. The results let Dr. Bogrow know if you will benefit from a sleep test to determine if you have sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. Once you are tested and have a diagnosis, then Dr. Bogrow will make a treatment plan. If you need an oral appliance, a custom-made device will be made for you. Then you can begin benefiting from getting a good night’s sleep!

Contact Michigan Sleep Apnea Center

If you or your loved one is experiencing any of the common symptoms of ADHD and/or sleep apnea, please contact us with your questions. We will be happy to schedule you for an exam with Dr. Bogrow and help you get on the road to better sleep.