Snoring can make for a bad night’s sleep, for you and your bed mate. But if it happens because you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it may be an indication of a bigger problem. Sleep apnea is the involuntary cessation of breathing while you are asleep. There is increasing evidence that untreated obstructive sleep apnea can have a significant impact on your personal health. The condition raises your risk of health ailments like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Let’s talk about the most frequent health risks of untreated sleep apnea.
High Blood Pressure
Untreated sleep apnea is linked to high blood pressure. If you already have it, sleep apnea can make it worse. Sleep apnea can also make it harder to treat blood pressure with medication. When you wake up often during the night, your body becomes stressed. That makes your hormone systems go into overdrive which boosts your blood pressure.
Heart Disease
People with OSA are more likely to have heart disease. The causes may be low oxygen and the stress of waking up often during the night. Strokes and atrial fibrillation are also linked to OSA.
Type 2 Diabetes
Sleep apnea is common among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that blood sugar levels are higher among men and women with OSA. Obesity raises the risk for OSA and Type 2 diabetes. However, treatment for OSA can decrease blood sugar levels.
Premature Death
Because OSA is linked to many chronic health issues, untreated OSA can result in premature death. In a recent study it was found that folks with severe OSA have a much higher mortality risk than those without OSA.
Dental Treatment Option
The health risks of untreated OSA may seem overwhelming. However, your dentist can often help treat your OSA. Oral appliance therapy can be a successful treatment for OSA. Oral appliance therapy uses a custom-fit, “mouthguard-like” device worn only during sleep. Oral appliance therapy helps maintain an open, unobstructed airway.
Contact Houston Sleep Solutions:
281-485-4829
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1769 S. Friendswood Dr. Ste 107
Friendswood, Texas
77546
