You may have already heard about sleep apnea and how it can prevent you from getting quality sleep. But how much do you really know about this disorder? Learning as much as possible about sleep apnea can put you in a better position to properly deal with it. To help you get started, here are 5 crucial facts about sleep apnea that aren’t as widely known as they should be!
1. The Vast Majority of Sleep Apnea Cases are Undiagnosed
Most people with sleep apnea don’t even realize that something is wrong. It’s estimated that 80 percent or even 90 percent of sleep apnea cases are going undiagnosed due to people not recognizing the warning signs for what they are. It’s therefore crucial to learn about common sleep apnea symptoms, such as loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and memory problems. If you have any reason to suspect that you have a sleep disorder, you should seek a diagnosis right away.
2. Hundreds of Sleep Apnea Episodes Can Occur in Just One Night
Having sleep apnea means that your breathing is being interrupted while you’re asleep. This causes blood oxygen levels to fall, and it forces your body to wake up for air. In severe cases, your breathing can be interrupted hundreds of times throughout the night. You thus won’t be able to get a good night’s rest, which can have dire consequences for your health in the long term.
3. Sleep Apnea is Closely Linked with Obesity
There are multiple risk factors for sleep apnea, and weight is one of the biggest. People who are overweight or obese are significantly more likely to develop sleep-disordered breathing. This is due to fat deposits forming in the neck; said deposits can cut off the flow of air while you’re asleep, thus causing sleep apnea episodes.
4. Untreated Sleep Apnea Can Be Life-Threatening
Ignoring your sleep apnea is never a good idea. Researchers have found that the risk of premature death is three times higher in people with untreated sleep apnea. This can largely be attributed to the disorder increasing the chances of cardiovascular problems or accidents on the road. Having your sleep apnea treated as soon as possible could very well be a decision that ends up saving your life.
5. Sleep Apnea Can Sometimes Be Treated with an Oral Appliance
You may have heard of the CPAP machines that are traditionally used to treat sleep apnea. However, if you are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing, you may be eligible for an oral appliance that helps keep your airway open. Many patients find this treatment option to be more comfortable and convenient than a CPAP machine. If you speak to a sleep dentist, they can help you figure out whether an oral appliance is a viable option for you.
About the Author
Dr. Pamela West graduated from the University of Southern California Dental School in 1987, and she currently holds membership with the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and other organizations. She provides customized oral appliances to help patients with sleep apnea get a good night’s rest again. To schedule a free consultation with Dr. West at iSleepSolutions in Las Vegas, visit her website or call (702) 602-2000.