When was the last time you had a truly restful night of sleep? For many men, the answer is: It’s been a while. Whether it’s snoring that wakes the whole house, dragging through the day with low energy, or simply assuming poor sleep is a natural part of aging, too many men overlook the profound health impact of chronic sleep problems.
But the truth is — sleep disorders are common, treatable and too important to ignore.
The hidden toll of poor sleep
Sleep is not just “downtime” for the body. It’s essential for repairing tissue, supporting brain function, balancing hormones and maintaining a healthy immune system. Ongoing sleep deprivation can put men at risk for severe conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes and depression.
What sleep disorders affect men the most?
Several sleep conditions disproportionately affect men or may go undiagnosed due to stigma or lack of awareness. These include:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA):
More common in men — especially those who are middle-aged or overweight — OSA causes repeated breathing interruptions during sleep. Loud snoring, daytime fatigue and morning headaches are common symptoms. Untreated OSA significantly raises the risk of cardiovascular disease.
“Obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where individuals struggle to breathe during sleep, affects approximately 1 in 5 adults, and previous estimates suggested that 80% of those affected remain undiagnosed,” said Dr. Scott Leibowitz, DABSM, FAASM, medical director of sleep medicine at Northside Hospital.
Insomnia:
Persistent trouble falling or staying asleep can take a significant toll on physical and mental health. Men may be less likely to report symptoms tied to anxiety or stress, which often underlie chronic insomnia.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS):
The urge to move your legs at night, often with an uncomfortable tingling sensation, can make falling asleep difficult. Though more widely studied in women, RLS affects many men and often goes untreated.
Shift work sleep disorder:
Men who work overnight or rotating shifts may struggle with disrupted circadian rhythms, leading to poor sleep quality, irritability and concentration issues.
The risk of ignoring the signs
Persistent sleep problems can lead to:
- Mood changes and decreased motivation
- Low testosterone levels
- Increased risk of accidents or injuries
- Memory and concentration problems
- Reduced quality of life
Fatigue doesn’t have to be your baseline. If you regularly wake up feeling tired, experience frequent nighttime awakenings or rely heavily on caffeine to function, it may be time to consult a health care provider.
Our sleep medicine specialists at the Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center are trained to evaluate and treat a wide range of sleep disorders. From overnight sleep studies to customized treatment plans, we help patients find long-term relief and healthier rest.
Sleep studies can identify apnea, restless legs syndrome and abnormal sleep patterns. Treatments may include lifestyle changes, CPAP therapy, medications or behavioral therapy, depending on the diagnosis.
What you can do right now
- Talk to your doctor: Don’t brush off symptoms like snoring, fatigue or waking up gasping for air.
- Establish a healthy sleep routine: Stick to a regular bedtime, limit screen use at night and avoid heavy meals or alcohol close to bedtime.
- Know your risk: Men over 40, those with high blood pressure or those who are overweight have a higher risk of sleep apnea.
- Get screened: A simple questionnaire or sleep evaluation can help you achieve better sleep and better health.
Learn more or schedule a sleep evaluation
If you suspect you have a sleep condition or are experiencing symptoms, consult with a specialist to discuss screening and treatment options.
Learn more about how Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Centers can help you navigate the complexities of sleep apnea and ensure you receive the best care possible.
