When Blue Light Leads to Bad Breathing: The Link Between Cell Phones & Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition that can have serious consequences if left untreated. Whether you know that you have it or not, certain lifestyle habits can worsen symptoms and make getting a night’s rest seem impossible. One of these regular behaviors is being on your cell phone before bed. Think there’s no connection? Guess again. Keep reading to discover how your electronic device can hinder your quality of sleep.

What Makes Cell Phones So Bad?

Electronic screens emit what is known as blue light, which hinders the production of melatonin. This hormone is essential when it comes to achieving adequate rest. If it becomes disrupted at nighttime, you will find it harder to fall and stay asleep, which can negatively impact your daily life.

If you are living with sleep apnea, using a cell phone before bed can sabotage any treatment you may be currently undergoing. If you are unaware that you have sleep apnea, the continued practice of scrolling at night will only worsen your symptoms.

What Can You Do to Change Your Habits?

Making changes to your routine or lifestyle isn’t always easy, but it’s often worth it, especially when it comes to your quality of sleep and life.

If you want to either decrease the amount of blue light you are exposed to or quit reaching for your cell phone before bed, consider the following:

· Keep your cell phone in another room when it’s time to go to bed – make it a screen-free area.

· Stick to a regular bedtime routine by going to sleep at the same time every night.

· Avoid scrolling or using other screens during the day for extended periods.

· Dim the lights in your bedroom to encourage melatonin production.

· Reduce blue light by switching your phone to nighttime mode.

If you suspect that you may have sleep apnea, make an appointment with a sleep dentist who can help. Getting treatment for this common condition can be life-changing, allowing you to get much-needed rest while also breathing without fear of obstruction.

Don’t let your cell phone dictate your health or your life. Take back your bedtime by making essential changes and talking to an expert about what you can do to start breathing and sleeping better each night.

About the AuthorDr. Jonathan Held is a sleep dentist who understands firsthand the problems associated with obstructive sleep apnea. As a sufferer, he relates to his patients and is pleased to provide effective treatment that can boost a person’s quality of life. Using oral appliances and myofunctional therapy exercises, he can help others breathe easier and finally get the rest they desperately need. Are you unable to get adequate sleep? Call us at (928) 778-4555 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We are pleased to serve the residents of Flagstaff, Kingman, and Prescott Valley.