4. Insomnia: The Paradox of Sleeplessness
Insomnia and sleep apnea may seem like unlikely bedfellows, but they often coexist in a tumultuous relationship. You’re lying awake at 2 a.m., staring at the ceiling, pondering life’s mysteries, and ironically, sleep apnea could be to blame.
In sleep apnea, airflow becomes restricted, causing you to wake up briefly to resume breathing. These episodes are so short you may not remember them, but they’re long enough to ruin your sleep cycle. Before you know it, you’re stuck in a cycle of sleeplessness, wide awake at hours no one should be.
Some women describe a sensation of dread or anxiety that keeps them awake. This isn’t simply ‘in your head’; it’s a survival instinct. Your body senses that it’s not getting enough oxygen, inducing a fight-or-flight response. You may not be aware of it, but your body is in a state of high alert. (4)
