Dr. Brandon Hedgecock on Fox 7 Austin: Pandemic Stress and Sleep

Posted August 17, 2020.

Millions of people across the globe suffered from sleep issues before COVID-19 and unfortunately, the pandemic has created a whole new host of problems, even for people who previously didn’t have sleep concerns.

Dr. Brandon Hedgecock recently spoke to Fox 7 Austin about the impact of pandemic-related stress on sleep habits.

The uncertainty of COVID-19 paired with changes in daily schedules and routines are disrupting normal sleep patterns. Dr. Brandon Hedgecock suggests the following tips to get a better night’s sleep.

Tips to Improve Your Sleep

Establish a bedtime routine and stick to it
Allow time to wind-down before bed
Turn off electronics an hour before bed and remove from room
Make sure bedroom is dark and comfortable temperature
Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime
Stay active
Avoid bed sharing (pets, kids)

Dr. Brandon Hedgecock explains that if you have other symptoms such as snoring, waking up frequently, or if you have trouble performing daily activities because you are too tired, you could have a sleep disorder like sleep apnea. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, Dr. Brandon Hedgecock recommends further evaluation with a sleep expert because when left untreated, sleep apnea can result in long term health consequences.

Health Risks of Sleep Apnea

Depression and anxiety
Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
Heart disease
Hypertension
Obesity
Sexual disfunction

Click here to watch the entire Fox 7 interview.

For more information about sleep apnea treatments in Austin, including oral appliance therapy, contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our nationally recognized dental sleep experts.