In this podcast episode I am honoured to have Kelly McCausey join me to share her experience of finally getting deep and restful sleep and how being diagnosed and treated for sleep apnea, quite literally, transformed her life overnight.
I am not often drawn to Facebook videos but there was something so sincere about the expression on her face that I stopped, turned up the volume and listened. By the end, I was in tears and composing an email to Kelly to let her know how deeply affected I was by her passion to share the importance of sleep in our lives.
Sleep apnea has affected members of my family and several friends, in some cases with serious consequences, so I am very excited that she is able to share this message with you.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. People with untreated sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep, sometimes hundreds of times. This means the brain — and the rest of the body — may not get enough oxygen. [source: WebMD]
If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in a growing number of health problems, including:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Heart failure, irregular heart beats, and heart attacks
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Worsening of ADHD
- Headaches
In addition, untreated sleep apnea may be responsible for poor performance in everyday activities, such as at work and school, or motor vehicle crashes. The most common symptoms are:
- Waking up with a very sore or dry throat
- Loud snoring
- Occasionally waking up with a choking or gasping sensation [this is a sign for partners to listen for]
- Sleepiness or lack of energy during the day
- Sleepiness while driving
- Morning headaches
- Restless sleep
- Forgetfulness, mood changes, and a decreased interest in sex
- Recurrent awakenings or insomnia [source: WebMD]
Sleep apnea can be diagnosed at a sleep clinic. I was tested myself in October 2012. I will be honest that it’s a bit daunting but they were very accommodating of the fact that I like to be in bed by 10pm so I was set up first. I also found some selfies that I took of the equipment – not to be a deterrent but to prepare you for what to expect because I wish someone had told me. It looks worse than it is – it’s just some tape on your face and wires that go on a nightstand beside you.
I remember thinking how blessed I felt that these specialists worked the night shift so that I could be tested. If you need something – water, going to the bathroom, white noise, whatever – you just call out. They are recording and listening, and very kind.
I found an email to my Mom that I wrote at 8am and shared my first impressions:
I was released by 6am. Felt okay then, really tired now!!
I slept okay. Woken up a few times (code gray power failure and adjusting my electrodes). I’ll get results in a month but not likely apnea! I was able to breath at the hospital without congestion. I’m wondering if it’s maybe allergies in combination with tension in my jaw from clenching & grinding my teeth.
You don’t know until you’re tested, so if there is any doubt – please make an appointment with your doctor to talk about your concerns.
About Kelly
Kelly McCausey is an instigator of communities. She works with smart people to fine tune business plans and projects that attract and serve a community of people they love.
A blogger and podcaster herself, Kelly is the owner of Love People + Make Money and her passion is helping others to build a smart online business.
Her recipe
Kelly shared that she doesn’t cook much but one thing she is willing to make a mess for lately are these meatballs, which she describes as”Yummy, healthy and fun!”
Get the whole recipe here: http://www.mantitlement.com/recipes/turkey-zucchini-meatballs/
Want more details?
Kelly shared how having a coach was a significant part of her transformation. In our conversation, she mentions Therese Sparby from Radical Leadership.
If you have questions, you can find Kelly on Facebook @kellymccausey, and her website is https://lovepeoplemakemoney.com.
