Health Conditions Associated with Sleep Apnea

SLEEP APNEA IS MORE THAN SNORING AND FITFUL SLEEP

Over time, it can cause serious health complications, including life-threatening conditions. Treatment for sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy or CPAP treatment, is an essential part of avoiding these complications. Here are some sleep apnea health problems people may experience. 

Cardiovascular Problems 

When you have sleep apnea, the oxygen levels in your blood drop suddenly and dramatically. This puts a strain on your entire cardiovascular system. As a result, people with sleep apnea have a greater risk of a range of cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and abnormal heartbeat. Having sleep apnea alongside heart disease can even cause sudden death that results from an irregular heartbeat.  

Obesity 

Obesity is a risk factor for developing sleep apnea, and having sleep apnea also increases the risk of obesity. Lack of sleep can disrupt hormone regulation, causing you to feel hungrier and misread cues that you’re full. Fatigue can also make you crave comfort foods and interfere with your stamina to maintain a regular workout routine. The obesity associated with sleep apnea also increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome.  

Risk of Accidents 

People with untreated sleep apnea are prone to car accidents and workplace accidents because of their fatigue. They may fall asleep while driving, or fatigue may impair their concentration to such a degree that make mistakes that lead to injuries.  

If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, such as daytime drowsiness, or if you have been diagnosed and need to find the right treatment, contact Sleep Dynamics. We provide options to help sleep apnea sufferers get the rest they need and avoid complications. Call (848) 217-0240 to make an appointment and to learn more about CPAPs, dental sleep medicine, and much more.