Sleep apnea affects more than 20 million people in the United States. Many of its symptoms go undetected for years, or patients choose to avoid them hoping that they’ll eventually dissipate over time. Unfortunately, the signs that point to an obstruction in the airway can lead to life-threatening health conditions. If you are concerned that you may be dealing with untreated sleep apnea, read on to find out how timely treatment can help.
Is Sleep Apnea Harmful to Your Overall Health?
Yes, sleep apnea is a condition that should not be overlooked or underestimated. The inability to breathe and get a full night’s rest can negatively affect all aspects of the mind and body, resulting in everything from drowsy driving to heart attack.
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, which is considered to be the most common among sufferers, you struggle to breathe throughout the night because of tissues that collapse during sleep, blocking your airway. As a result, you wake up gasping for air multiple times each time.
This type of continuous interrupted sleep can lead to harmful effects on the body, such as:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Acid reflux
- Weight gain
- Brain fog
- Drowsy driving
- Memory loss
- Depression
How Can Sleep Apnea Be Treated?
To avoid all of the above-mentioned symptoms as well as others (i.e., moodiness, lack of libido, frequent headaches, sore throat, etc.), you’ll need to schedule an appointment with a sleep dentist.
Seeking professional help to diagnose your sleep apnea and begin a treatment plan that focuses on your short- and long-term health is pivotal to avoiding some of the more serious and life-threatening risks associated with this condition.
After receiving a formal diagnosis, you will undergo treatment that incorporates the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device or oral appliance therapy. Your sleep dentist might also find it helpful to place you on a weight loss treatment plan should obesity or being overweight be a factor.
Instead of living with declining health and daily impairments as a result of your sleep apnea, don’t be afraid to seek treatment, as it will put you on the right path to better overall health and well-being.
About the Practice
Our team at Star Sleep & Wellness in Plano consists of many sleep specialists who strive to deliver effective treatment options for patients who struggle with chronic fatigue, snoring, and weight gain. From the initial visit to regular follow-up care, individuals can trust us to remain engaged with their care so that better long-term health is achieved. Contact us to find out how we can help you get the rest you need.