Imagine waking up each morning feeling utterly exhausted, no matter how much you slept. Picture trying to focus at work as your eyelids grow heavy, your mind foggy, your productivity plummeting. If this sounds all too familiar, you could have sleep apnea.
But sleep apnea doesn't have to rule your life. With the proper treatment, you can reclaim the rested, rejuvenated mornings and live a healthier life.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, occurs when your throat muscles relax too much and block your airway. This causes you to stop breathing up to 100 times per hour while asleep.
The most common sleep apnea symptoms include the following:
- Loud snoring
- Extreme daytime fatigue
- Trouble falling asleep
- Waking up frequently
- Difficulty focusing
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Depression
Understanding the Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
It’s essential to understand how dangerous untreated sleep apnea can be; seeking treatment can significantly reduce your chances of severe health issues. Unfortunately, many sufferers don’t know they have sleep apnea unless a loved one notices the symptoms.
According to research from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, untreated sleep apnea can lead to the following health concerns:
- High blood pressure — Even if you’re taking high blood pressure medication, sleep apnea can make it more difficult to control your blood pressure.
- Diabetes — An untreated sleep disorder such as OSA can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Heart disease — Sleep apnea engages your body’s fight or flight response to the lack of oxygen and can cause undue stress on your heart.
- Stroke — Your stroke risk may be higher if you ignore the symptoms of sleep apnea.
- Mental health issues — You are at an increased risk for anxiety and depression if you suffer from OSA and don’t seek treatment.
Looking for a Dentist in Camas, WA?
If you have sleep apnea in Camas, WA, the expert dental team at Camas Dentistry is ready to help you get the restful sleep you need and improve your overall health! All you have to do is contact our dental office at (360) 828-5502 to schedule a consultation.
We look forward to hearing from you.