What is the Difference Between Sleep Apnea And Insomnia

What is the Difference Between Sleep Apnea And Insomnia?

Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia have been found to have serious effects on one’s health, energy and well-being. Though it is important to note that they are two different disorders both of which affect the quality of sleep in different ways. 

Understanding these differences is essential when selecting the right solution for our sleep health.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a chronic sleeping illness that causes a pause in breathing that ranges from five to twenty seconds during sleep. The regular sleeping cycle is disrupted by these pauses, known as apneas, which can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes.  

Types of Sleep Apnea 

Below are the major types of sleep apnea. 

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) 

OSA is the most common kind, which results from the throat muscles relaxing during sleep. This relaxation of the airway causes pauses in breathing, snoring loudly and frequent awakenings that result in poor-quality sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of heart failure by 140%, the risk of stroke by 60%, and the risk of coronary heart disease by 30%. 

  • Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) 

CSA takes place when it is impossible to transmit proper signals from the brain to the muscles of the lungs. The main difference between OSA and CSA is that there is no physical obstruction concerning breathing in the latter. Some of the signs are gasping, choking, breathing pauses, and very loud snoring followed by multiple night wakings. 

  • Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome 

It is sometimes termed as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea which has features of both CSA and OSA. It may occur in patients who have been diagnosed with OSA and are treated with a CPAP machine. In such cases, focused treatment is needed for both OSA subtypes – obstructive and central. 

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

  • Loud snoring
  • Choking during sleep
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Morning headaches
  • Difficulty concentrating

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Family history of sleep apnea
  • Narrow airway or nasal congestion

A study found that untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of cardiovascular issues, including hypertension and heart disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve long-term health outcomes.

What is Insomnia? 

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or both, despite having the opportunity to sleep. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting more than three months).

Types of Insomnia

Below are the two main types of insomnia:  

  • Primary Insomnia

Primary insomnia occurs on its own and is not linked to other health issues. It may result from stress, changes in sleep routine, or long-term habits that disrupt sleep. People with primary insomnia often struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep without any clear medical or physical cause.

  • Secondary Insomnia 

Secondary insomnia is caused by other conditions or factors. It can result from medical issues like asthma, depression, or chronic pain. Medications or lifestyle habits, such as excessive caffeine or alcohol use, can also trigger it. Treating the underlying cause often helps improve sleep in cases of secondary insomnia.

Symptoms of Insomnia 

  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Waking up frequently during the night
  • Feeling unrefreshed upon waking
  • Irritability or mood disturbances
  • Reduced focus and productivity

Causes of Insomnia

  • Stress and anxiety
  • Poor sleep hygiene
  • Chronic pain or illness
  • Substance use (e.g., caffeine or alcohol)

A study revealed that chronic insomnia is closely linked to increased risks of depression, anxiety, and reduced cognitive function. Implementing behavioural therapy and mindfulness techniques significantly improved sleep quality.

Sleep Apnea vs. Insomnia

Major Differences Between Sleep Apnea and Insomnia

Feature Sleep Apnea Insomnia
Primary Issue Breathing disruptions during sleep Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Symptoms Snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, gasping Restlessness, waking frequently
Causes Physical blockages, neurological issues Stress, poor sleep habits, medical conditions
Risk Factors Obesity, smoking, family history Stress, irregular schedules, chronic conditions
Treatment CPAP machines, lifestyle changes, surgery Cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, relaxation techniques

Diagnosis and Treatment 

Treating sleep apnea and insomnia requires early diagnosis for the patients and there normal functioning to be restored. It is crucial to assess symptoms properly and then develop therapies that will meet the needs of the body as much as possible when diagnosing them.

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is diagnosed using specialized tests:

  • Sleep Study (Polysomnography)

A non-invasive, all-night test that records brain waves, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing patterns to detect apnea episodes.

  • Home Sleep Apnea Tests (HSAT)

A convenient, less invasive test that records airflow, oxygen saturation and breaths per minute to diagnose sleep apnea.

Treating Sleep Apnea

Treatment for sleep apnea focuses on maintaining open airways during sleep. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines deliver a steady stream of airflow, preventing airway collapse. Weight management is often recommended, as shedding excess weight can reduce pressure on the airways. 

Positional therapy encourages side-sleeping to minimize obstruction, particularly in mild cases. For severe conditions, surgical options may be necessary to remove physical blockages or correct structural issues, offering a long-term solution to improve breathing during sleep. 

Diagnosing Insomnia

  • Detailed Sleep History and Medical Evaluation

Doctors review the patient’s sleep history and perform medical evaluations to identify psychological, medical, or environmental factors contributing to insomnia.

  • Sleep Diaries

Keeping a sleep diary helps track patterns, habits, and triggers over time, aiding in pinpointing the root cause of insomnia.

  • Sleep Assessments

Questionnaires and interviews are used to evaluate the severity of insomnia and its impact on daily life.

  • Polysomnography (if needed)

In cases where other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, are suspected, a polysomnography test may be conducted.

Treating Insomnia 

Treating insomnia often begins with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and promoting healthy sleep habits. Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and avoiding screens before bed, can improve sleep quality.

MindSpa Psychiatry offers expert insomnia treatment through telemedicine, providing personalized care to restore restful sleep. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help—contact MindSpa today.

Can You Have Both Sleep Apnea and Insomnia? 

Yes, you can have both sleep apnea and insomnia simultaneously, a condition known as comorbid insomnia and sleep apnea (COMISA). People with COMISA experience interrupted breathing due to sleep apnea and difficulty falling or staying asleep due to insomnia. This combination often leads to worsened sleep quality, excessive daytime fatigue, and heightened health risks, such as cardiovascular issues.  

The Importance of Seeking Professional Help

Seeking professional help for sleep disorders is crucial, as untreated conditions like sleep apnea and insomnia can significantly impact your health. Ignoring these issues increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. 

Chronic sleep deprivation weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses. It also affects your cognitive abilities, leading to poor work performance, memory issues, and reduced productivity. Additionally, prolonged sleep disturbances can contribute to mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression.  

Professional evaluation and tailored treatment can help restore your sleep quality and overall well-being, improving your physical and emotional health. At MindSpa Psychiatry, expert care awaits to help you reclaim restful nights and vibrant days—because your well-being deserves more than just counting sheep!

Conclusion 

Sleep apnea and insomnia may disrupt your life in different ways, but effective solutions are within reach. By understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatments, you can take proactive steps toward better sleep health.

Don’t let sleep disorders take over your life. Reach out to MindSpa Psychiatry today and start your journey to better sleep and improved well-being. Book your appointment now and wake up feeling refreshed!

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