5. Mood Fluctuations: The Emotional Rollercoaster
Mood swings are often shrugged off as ‘just one of those days’ or hormonal fluctuations. However, there’s an underbelly to these rapid changes in mood, one that often gets swept under the rug: sleep apnea. When you think about it, it’s logical. Lack of restful sleep impacts your emotional stability.
While men often exhibit anger or irritability, women may display a broader range of emotional symptoms, including bouts of sadness, anxiousness, or even excessive cheerfulness. These mood swings are more than just disruptive; they’re a sign your body is struggling with something far more serious than you might realize.
Sleep apnea affects your sleep cycle, notably the REM stage, which is critical for emotional regulation. Interference in this stage can lead to a cascade of emotional imbalances throughout the day. It’s not merely about feeling ‘off’; it’s about a noticeable shift in your emotional equilibrium.
Even your interactions with people around you can be influenced. Have you ever found yourself snapping at loved ones or withdrawing from social activities? While it’s easy to blame it on stress or busy schedules, the elephant in the room could very well be sleep apnea affecting your emotional regulation. (5)
