Sleep apnea—a term derived from Greek meaning “without breath”—refers to a condition in which breathing pauses for 10 seconds or more during sleep. Identifying and understanding the signs and risks of sleep apnea is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea manifests through a variety of symptoms, which may include:
- Loud Snoring
- Gasping or Choking
- Racing Heart
- Persistent Fatigue
- Morning Headaches
- Daytime Sleepiness
- Unintended Sleep
- Memory and Concentration Issues
- Irritability
- Weight Changes
- Acid Reflux
- ADHD/Bedwetting
The Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Ignoring sleep apnea can lead to significant health complications, including:
- Increased Risk of Obesity: Linked to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
- High Blood Pressure: Can cause elevated blood pressure levels.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Higher likelihood of heart disease.
- Diabetes: Greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Severe Complications: Potentially life-threatening issues, including death.
Sleep apnea is particularly dangerous when apneas (complete stoppages of breathing) and hypopneas (shallow breathing due to airway obstruction) occur frequently. These episodes are often caused by the relaxation of the tongue and throat muscles, which obstruct the airway.
The Impact of Apnea Events
During an apnea event, which can last from 10 seconds to over a minute, the body experiences:
- Drop in Oxygen Levels
- Increased Blood Pressure
- Accelerated Heart Rate
- Physical Movements
These disruptions can lead to fragmented sleep and increased daytime sleepiness. Addressing sleep apnea promptly is crucial for improving health and quality of life.
Understanding the signs and risks of sleep apnea allows you to take proactive steps for effective management and treatment of this condition.
Treatment Options
Treatment varies based on severity. For mild cases, lifestyle changes like weight loss and quitting smoking may help. Oral devices can keep the airway open, and surgery might be needed for severe cases.
Suspect Sleep Apnea in Your Family?
If you believe that you or a family member may be suffering from sleep apnea, we encourage you to contact us. We can refer you to a sleep specialist who may recommend a sleep study to diagnose the condition accurately. Based on the diagnosis, treatment may involve a custom-made oral device designed by Dr. Demas, who is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, give us a call today. We’re here to help you achieve better sleep and improved health.
