Mar 16, 2026
3 min read
It is one of the most common and underestimated disorders.Experts and recent studies have shown that it can affect the quality of rest and increase the risk of mental health problems and cardiovascular disease.
Every year World Sleep Day invites us to reflect on the importance of a good rest.This 2026, the chosen theme is “Sleep well, live better”, remembering that sleep is not a waste of time, but an important physiological need for memory, immunity and cellular repair.
“Sleep and rest are not a metaphor,” Eric Chu, an expert in the Department of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, said in an article published in Harvard Health Publishing. “We need to expand this concept for recovery.”
The expert added: "Many of us think of rest in terms of physical rest. Sleep is part of physical rest and serves a very important function of relaxation, but it does not address other areas where a person may be deficient."
Dr. Facundo Nogueira, head of the sleep laboratory at the Hospital de Clínicas (MN 84970) explained in a previous note that good sleep is not only the performance for the required number of hours, but also "a good quality sleep whose different stages are carried out in a progressive and orderly manner, so that the sleep structure is architectural or architectural."
What is sleep apnea?
Fleni explains that sleep apnea represents one of the most under-recognized problems, and at the same time, it is very dangerous for good health.
Among sleep disorders, one of the most common is sleep apnea, according to Dr.Daniel Perez Chada (MN 47.085) previous note.
This problem, as noted by experts, is related to the collapse of the upper part or completely during night rest.As a result, patients suffer from germs and reduced oxygen levels.
Sleep apnea may not be noticeable to the affected person.However, some of the main symptoms include heavy snoring, shortness of breath, waking up frequently, and having to urinate multiple times during the night.
A Canadian study published in JAMA Network Open by the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and the University of Ottawa found that adults aged 45 to 85 who are at high risk for obstructive sleep apnea are up to 40% more likely to experience mental health problems.
The study used data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, which allowed us to examine the relationship between sleep-disordered breathing and incident or persistent depression and anxiety in middle-aged and older adults.
Headache, dry mouth, sleepiness and difficulty concentrating are common in the morning.Often family members notice pauses in breathing and prompt medical consultation.
The effects of sleep apnea go beyond fatigue.Several studies have shown that untreated people are 2.36 times more likely to be involved in a car accident.In addition, sleep apnea can cause memory loss, headaches and mood swings.
How to treat sleep apnea
To confirm the diagnosis, special research is carried out."The study that we have used for several decades is polysomnography, which analyzes the different stages of sleep and cardiorespiratory activity in this stage of sleep. But in recent years, breathing polygraphy has gained ground. This is a study that, like polysomnography, the electroencephalographic activity is measured, by measuring the flow and breathing in Breathing and breathing. ".
The diagnosis of sleep apnea must be made by a specialist.The approach is always personalized and may include anything from recommendations for weight loss and improved sleep hygiene, to the use of devices such as CPAP, jaw advancement devices, myofunctional therapy or, in selected cases, surgery.
At this point, Dr. from Fleni Sleep Medicine Unit.Cecilia Berrozpe warns of its most serious consequences: "Sleep apnea negatively affects the quality of sleep and is a cardiovascular risk factor, as it is linked to arrhythmias, high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes."
Berozpe also emphasizes the importance of practice: he says it's important to determine the number of hours you need to sleep according to your age and to maintain good sleep hygiene.
Sleep is a dynamic process that supports important metabolic and neuronal functions.It is not only about quantity, but also about quality.Healthy rest helps prevent serious diseases and improve the quality of life.
Experts say that recognizing the symptoms, getting timely advice and following the prescribed treatment measures are the main steps to take care of your health and daily well-being.
