Do you wake up in the morning feeling more drained than when you finally fell asleep the night before? Do you frequently snore or wake up with headaches, jaw aches, or mood swings? If so, you might be suffering from sleep apnea.
If you have developed this condition, your body’s natural circadian rhythm is interrupted several times throughout the night, so you don’t get enough quality rest. Many patients who let their pets in bed wonder whether their furry friend improves things. Continue reading to learn more about how animal companions can affect your slumber!
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by repeated episodes of interrupted breathing throughout the night. These episodes typically last for 10 seconds or longer and prevent your body from completing all the stages of the nightly cycles necessary to rejuvenate your systems and replenish healthy cells successfully.
Over time, the lack of quality rest can cause excessive exhaustion, difficulty concentrating, irritability, dry mouth, diabetes, heart disease, and even cognitive decline.
How Does My Pet Impact My Sleep Patterns?
Did you know that about 65% of American households report owning a pet and that cats and dogs are the most common type? Some folks keep their fuzzy friends off the furniture, while others hope their four-legged bestie will cuddle up at bedtime to keep them cozy. Studies have shown how having a cat or dog can benefit mental health, so it’s natural to wonder whether it helps or hinders to have them nearby when snoozing.
According to a 2017 study that analyzed 150 patients at the Center for Sleep Medicine, 74 reported owning at least one animal. About 56% of respondents said they allow their companion in the bedroom or on the bed at night. Of those who sleep with creatures in the room, only 20% were interrupted by wandering, whimpering, snoring, or other disruptive behaviors. Conversely, nearly 41% of them shared that their pet’s presence provides security that soothes their system so they can sleep more easily.
Is it Better to Sleep with a Pet?
Whether it’s best to sleep with an animal depends on your unique situation. They can reduce stress to ease your mind and muscles so you can drift off more quickly, but they might also make noise or engage in behaviors that keep you up. As a result, the study couldn’t determine which option was “best.” However, they did recommend that healthcare professionals working with patients with sleep disorders inquire about the conditions at home, including whether they have pets, to help them optimize their rest.
If you’ve been struggling to doze off at night, you might snooze more soundly if you invite your pet to join you!
Meet the Author
Dr. Jennifer Bragg is committed to improving the quality of life for those with sleep apnea by addressing underlying concerns contributing to their condition. She earned her dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, and a member of other prestigious organizations like the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. She takes the time to get to know, so she can provide customized treatment plans to reduce your symptoms. You can request an appointment on the website or call (470) 281-9905.