Is Your Pet Affecting Your Sleep Apnea?

The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that one-third of homes in the US have dogs. Whether you have a dog, cat, or even a ferret, your furry friend is a member of your family.  Many dog and pet owners allow their animals to sleep in their beds with them at night. If you share your bed with your pet, it may affect your sleep apnea. Here’s what you need to know to sleep peacefully without closing the door on your pet.

How Sleep Apnea Affects Sleep Quality

Obstructive sleep apnea causes frequent breathing disruptions throughout the night. As your tongue or soft throat tissues collapse to block your upper airway, it can cause you to stop breathing potentially hundreds of times throughout the night. Each event deprives your body of oxygen, which can take a toll on your health. However, every disturbance also interrupts your sleep cycle. 

Without adequate rest, you can be at risk of various physical and psychological issues, including sleep deprivation. With sleep apnea already affecting the quality of rest you receive, is your pet making matters worse?

Pets and Sleep Apnea

A recent survey found that 50% of homes have at least 1 pet. More than half of pet owners allow their animals into their bedrooms at night, with 40% of study respondents reporting sleep better because of their companion. However, researchers suggest that pets can affect sleep efficiency when they are allowed in the bed. 

Sleep efficiency is the amount of time you spend awake in bed versus the length of time you’re asleep. Researchers found that the size of the dog and the number of people in bed can affect sleep efficiency. The larger the dog, the less sleep you may receive. Pet dander can also affect sleep quality by triggering allergy symptoms.

Sleeping with pets is also beneficial. Pets can offer a sense of comfort, protection, and companionship, which can reduce anxiety to promote more restful sleep. 

Although sleeping with your four-legged friend can help you sleep better, it isn’t a substitute for sleep apnea treatment.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

You have several options to treat obstructive sleep apnea, including:

• CPAP Machine: A CPAP machine is one fairly method of treating sleep apnea. Pressurized air is delivered through masking worn over the mouth or nose to keep the airway open.
• Oral Appliance: An oral appliance is a comfortable alternative to a CPAP, but it can also be used along with the machine. These devices are custom-made for your mouth, and they position your tongue and jaw comfortably to prevent obstructions in your airway.

Besides following your treatment plan, stick to a regular bedtime routine, like turning off screens before lying down for the night. Keep your room dark and at a comfortable temperature. If you sleep better with your pet in your room, don’t break the routine now.

About Dr. Robert Dernick

Dr. Dernick achieved his dental degree at the University of Texas Dental Branch and has continued his training in general and cosmetic dentistry. However, he is also a sleep specialist. He provides non-invasive solutions to treat snoring and sleep apnea. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (281) 612-6316.