Men and women with obstructive sleep apnea have a higher risk for serious depression. A nationwide survey revealed that men diagnosed with sleep apnea had 2 times the risk of depression, while women had 5 times the risk. Simple snoring did not increase the risk, but snorting or stopping breathing five or more nights per week tripled the risk for both men and women. The resulting episodic lack of oxygen to specific areas of the brain may help explain these findings.
PositiveTip: Healthy sleep is as essential as good nutrition and physical activity. Get a check-up if you are not sleeping well.