How Sleep Deprivation May Lead to Alzheimer’s

Everyone has experienced the negative effects of a poor night of sleep. The exhaustion, the trouble concentrating, and the unpleasant mood are all hallmarks of a restless night. However, not many people know about the long-term consequences of repeatedly failing to get enough sleep. Recent research suggests that sleep deprivation may even be a key contributing factor to the development of Alzheimer’s. Let’s talk about how not getting enough high-quality shuteye may endanger your mental acuity.

Sleep Deprivation Accelerates Brain Damage

Tau is a normal protein within the brain — everyone has it — but when it clumps together, it can injure nearby tissue and lead to cognitive problems. In Alzheimer’s patients, these clumps of tau affect portions of the brain that control memory before they spread to other areas of the brain, making it increasingly difficult for patients to think clearly.

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis discovered that a lack of sleep increases levels of tau within the brain. The study examined about people and mice, and in follow-up examinations of the mice, the researchers discovered that the lack of sleep accelerated the spread of toxic clumps of tau throughout the brain.

What the Study Means for You

The research indicates that sleep deprivation might be an independent contributing factor to Alzheimer’s. It’s also possible that individuals who have already been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s may be able to slow the disease’s progression by getting enough shuteye. Therefore, the key takeaway is that you should make it a habit to get a solid seven to eight hours of high-quality rest each night.

Unfortunately, getting enough rest is easier said than done for many people, particularly individuals who struggle with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA patients may go to bed at a decent hour every night, but their condition robs them of sleep by disrupting their breathing and making it impossible for them to enjoy truly rejuvenating rest.

If you have OSA, or if you are exhibiting any key symptoms of the disease (such as, loud snoring, insomnia, or frequent nighttime urination), it is vital that you seek diagnosis and treatment. An expert in dental sleep medicine, such as Dr. Shelley Shults, may be the best personal to help you because she has an intimate understanding of how OSA works. She offers multiple therapy options that can help you to breathe easily at night and thus reap all of the benefits of high-quality sleep.

You shouldn’t let a lack of sleep rob you of your everyday quality of life or endanger your long-term mental well-being. Take steps to get enough shuteye each night; not only will you feel better from day to day, but you could also decrease your risk of developing Alzheimer’s!

About the Author

Dr. Shelley Shults is a dentist who has undergone extensive training in OSA treatment. She is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, the American Sleep and Breathing Academy, and other prestigious organizations. If you would like to learn how she can help you rest easier at night, contact us at 614-396-9310 or use our online form to request an appointment.