7. Difficulty Concentrating: The Cognitive Toll of OSA
Our brains require a steady supply of oxygen to function optimally. With OSA, frequent apneas mean the brain is regularly deprived of its essential fuel. This deprivation manifests cognitively as memory lapses, reduced attention span, and difficulty concentrating on tasks.
While many of us experience periods of forgetfulness or distraction, for OSA patients, it’s a persistent state of being. This “brain fog” can make routine tasks, like reading or holding a conversation, feel monumentally challenging.
From missed appointments to errors at work, the implications of this cognitive decline can be broad-reaching. Over time, this can erode self-confidence and lead to feelings of frustration and even depression.
Though it might seem less severe than some of the other symptoms, difficulty concentrating is a significant indicator of OSA. Taking note of these cognitive changes and seeking advice can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. (7)
