Take Our Sleep Test

In contrast to just feeling tired, how likely are you to doze off or fall asleep in the following situations? (Even if you have not done some of these things recently, try to work out how they would have affected you.) Use the following sleep test scale to choose the most appropriate number for each situation:

0 = Would never doze
1 = Slight chance of dozing
2 = Moderate chance of dozing
3 = High chance of dozing

Your Situation:

Sitting and Reading

Watching Television

Sitting inactive in a public place

As a car passenger for 1 hour, no break

Lying down to rest in the afternoon

Sitting and talking to someone

Sitting quietly after lunch without alcohol

In a car stopped in traffic

    

Research & Publications

Sleep Apnea and Snoring Research and Publications
Call Us for a Priority Appointment   (484) 684-6800

Leaving Sleep Apnea Untreated May Be Worse for Your Sex Life

Date Posted: Saturday, November 1st, 2014 by Alan Berger

In a recent study, published by Chest and reprinted by Philly.com, it was determined that "CPAP compliance does not impair sexual quality of life in patients with sleep apnea."

Don Sesso, D.O., Director of The Pennsylvania Snoring and Sleep Institute and one of the leading Sleep Specialists in the U.S. offers his view on the study performed by researchers from Chicago's Rosalind Franklin University.

In my opinion, not treating sleep apnea may actually be worse for your sex life.

"As a sleep specialist, one of my challenges is to help patients accept CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy as treatment for their sleep apnea. Frequently, patients may have a negative perception of this type of treatment. The reasons patients may be reluctant to use CPAP are varied; however it is not uncommon for some patients to be concerned about the impact of CPAP on their sex life. Younger patients and those who are dating seem to believe that CPAP may prevent them from finding a partner. In addition, many report the belief that CPAP use makes them sexually less attractive. However, a recent article in the journal Chest (and reported by Philly.com) found that CPAP usage does not impair sexual quality of life in patients with sleep apnea."

"I like to tell patients that untreated sleep apnea may place you at risk for erectile dysfunction, impotency and decreased libido. Also, if you are snoring heavily, your partner may not want to sleep in the same room as you which can impact intimacy."

"Another takeaway from the article in Chest was that nearly half of the subjects were not compliant with their CPAP therapy. This raises another important issue. If you cannot tolerate CPAP, other treatment options may be available, such as surgery or dental appliances. If you snore or have sleep apnea, speak with your sleep doctor. Treatment has the ability to improve your health, energy and sex life."