Sleep Apnea: Its Impact on Daily Dizziness and Health

Sleep Apnea

Hello, doctor.
I previously inquired about my sleep apnea condition.
I didn't initially think it was sleep apnea.
I underwent several tests including liver and kidney ultrasound, electrocardiogram (ECG), 24-hour Holter monitoring, exercise stress test, echocardiogram, brain CT, brain MRI, neck CT, electroencephalogram (EEG), vestibular testing, intracranial blood flow ultrasound, colonoscopy, tilt table test, chest X-ray, Helicobacter pylori breath test, autoimmune tests, blood tests, and urinalysis.
I found out that I have mild fatty liver, small bone spurs in my neck that are not pressing on nerves, and slight narrowing of the blood vessels in the right side of my brain.
However, the cardiologist said my heart is fine, and the neurologist indicated that the small bone spurs and the narrowing of the right brain vessels are not contributing factors.
The doctors suggested that my symptoms might be due to stress or sleep apnea, with sleep apnea being a more significant factor.
Therefore, I would like to ask if sleep apnea can indeed cause me to feel dizzy every day, sometimes with a swaying sensation.
The doctor mentioned it resembles neurogenic dizziness.
Thank you.

Alvin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/05

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

Have you undergone a sleep study? There are many reasons that can cause dizziness, and dizziness during sleep interruptions is often due to poor sleep quality.
Therefore, your description does suggest that it is possible.
Clinically, when dizziness symptoms are so pronounced, it is advisable to identify the primary cause of the dizziness and pursue active treatment.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/06/05

More Info

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can significantly impact your overall health and daily functioning. It occurs when a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep, leading to fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen levels in the blood. This condition can manifest in various ways, including excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and even dizziness, which you mentioned experiencing.

The symptoms you describe, such as daily dizziness and the sensation of your head swaying, can indeed be linked to sleep apnea. When your breathing is obstructed during sleep, your body may not receive adequate oxygen, which can lead to a range of neurological symptoms, including dizziness. The brain relies heavily on a consistent supply of oxygen to function optimally, and any interruptions can lead to cognitive disturbances and physical symptoms like dizziness.

In your case, the extensive tests you've undergone, including imaging studies and cardiac evaluations, have ruled out several potential causes of your symptoms. However, the connection between sleep apnea and your dizziness is worth exploring further. Sleep apnea can lead to a cycle of poor sleep quality, which exacerbates feelings of fatigue and dizziness during the day. The fragmented sleep caused by apnea can prevent you from reaching the deeper stages of sleep that are crucial for restorative rest, leading to a feeling of unrefreshing sleep even if you spend enough time in bed.

Moreover, the presence of fatty liver and cervical spine issues, while not directly causing your dizziness, can contribute to a general feeling of malaise and may complicate your overall health picture. Stress, as mentioned by your doctors, can also play a significant role in exacerbating symptoms of both sleep apnea and dizziness. Stress can lead to muscle tension, which may affect your neck and head, potentially contributing to the sensation of dizziness.

To address your concerns about sleep apnea and its impact on your daily life, consider the following steps:
1. Consult a Sleep Specialist: If you haven't already, seeing a sleep specialist can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation of your sleep patterns. A sleep study (polysomnography) can help confirm the diagnosis of sleep apnea and determine its severity.

2. Lifestyle Modifications: Implementing lifestyle changes can significantly improve sleep apnea symptoms. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and sleeping on your side instead of your back.

3. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: If diagnosed with sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is often the first line of treatment. This device helps keep your airways open during sleep, reducing the frequency of apneic episodes and improving overall sleep quality.

4. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate symptoms, incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or cognitive behavioral therapy can be beneficial.

5. Regular Follow-ups: Keep in touch with your healthcare providers to monitor your symptoms and adjust treatment plans as necessary. Regular follow-ups can help ensure that any changes in your condition are addressed promptly.

In conclusion, sleep apnea can indeed have a profound impact on your daily life, including contributing to feelings of dizziness. By seeking appropriate treatment and making necessary lifestyle adjustments, you can improve your sleep quality and overall health. It’s essential to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your condition to achieve the best outcomes.

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