Is Modern Technology Affecting Your Mood?
Posted on March 14, 2013 by Dr. Erin Elliott
Insomnia can happen for numerous reasons; however, more and more studies are showing that modern technology may have at least some responsibility for this growing problem. Research indicates that artificial light from eReaders, television, smartphones and iPads can force our brains to pump our veins full of stress hormones that prevent us from falling asleep at night. Additionally, these fight-or-flight hormones have been shown to promote anxiety, depression and potential medical problems as we age.
A study conducted at Johns Hopkins University in which researchers exposed mice to artificial light several hours after the sun had set. Interestingly, after only a few days, these mice began to express symptoms of depression.
A Big Deal
The Johns Hopkins University study isn’t the only one to show that artificial light can play a part in causing physical problems. In fact, the evidence has become so overwhelming; the American Medical Association has recognized light exposure as having a profound link to sleep problems, dangerous driving and even cancer.
How it Applies to Sleep Apnea
Most ordinary, healthy Americans can promote deeper sleep by staying away from artificial light within several hours before they try to sleep. Unfortunately, this won’t work for people who have sleep apnea, because breathing problems consistently awaken them several times throughout the night.
With that being said, a proven treatment for sleep apnea can stop these disruptions, allowing sleep apneics to get the rest they need each and every night. To learn more, contact Dr. Elliott or Dr. Heinrich’s office today!