man snoring while sleeping

Do you wake multiple times during the night? Does your partner constantly complain about your snoring? It is well known that sleep disorders can increase the risk for other health concerns such as dementia, stroke, heart disease, and more. But did you know that poor sleep can have a considerable impact on your job performance and productivity? Read on to learn more about the sleep apnea treatments our family dentists provide at Walnut Pond. We can help our patients – and their partners – enjoy a restful night’s sleep.

How Much Sleep Do You Need?

According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults require between seven and nine hours of sleep every night for healthy function. Unfortunately, about 40 million American workers are sleeping no more than six hours every single night. This issue is compounded for people with sleep apnea, snoring, and other disorders. These individuals often develop chronic fatigue that severely impacts daytime production.

The Effects of Poor Sleep on Productivity

Sleep deprivation can affect normal functioning just as much as alcohol intoxication. Imagine the consequences of this in the workplace. People who suffer from poor sleep quality are more likely to make errors, be unproductive, and feel overall irritable. Additionally, poor sleep diminishes memory, creativity, and the ability to focus on the task at hand.

In 2008, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Harvard Medical School conducted research on lack of sleep and workplace productivity. They found that American employers lose a staggering $63 billion every year due to insomnia and sleep-related disorders.

Aside from putting a strain on the economy, sleep disorders can have a tremendous negative impact on emotional health. For many, the result is a feeling of constant negativity. Because of this, many people eventually find they are unhappy or dissatisfied with their jobs. Simply stated, poor sleep keeps us from reaching our full potential.

Sleeplessness and Your Relationships

Sleep disorders affect more than your work life. When you are sleep deprived, it alters your mood and interferes with your social functioning. This can put a strain on your personal relationships. When we are not well rested, it can actually decrease our ability to empathize with others, resulting in poor decision-making, lack of cooperation, and an overall negative outlook.

How Sleep Disorders Affect Safety

Sleep apnea and other disorders increase the likelihood of injuries and accidents. In fact, at least 13 percent of workplace injuries are directly linked to poor sleep. Unfortunately, it is also the cause of at least 20 percent of all highway and interstate accidents.

The consequences of sleep disorders are far-reaching. Not only does the individual suffer, but all those he or she comes in contact with suffer as well. Oftentimes, people do not realize the effects their poor sleep have on family members, coworkers, and community members.

Learn More about Sleep Apnea and Snoring Treatments

For your own health and safety, and the wellbeing of those around you, it is important to seek medical attention if you are suffering from a sleep disorder. At our Annandale office, Drs. Carson Ferris-Zeolla and Victoria Uryniak offer customized treatment for sleep apnea and snoring. To schedule a consultation with one of our skilled and knowledgeable doctors, contact us online or call our office at (908) 200-7007.