Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which the breathing interrupts repeatedly while sleeping. The breathing usually stays for 10 – 20 seconds. It can occur from 5 to 100 plus times every hour. Sleep apnea leads to numerous health issues.
In some cases, the condition is deadly. It is also tough to identify the signs on your own because the most prominent symptoms occur when you are asleep. That is why you must not take it lightly. Therefore, if you or your bed partner notices sleep apnea, speak to the dentist in Morristown right away.
What is Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Sleep apnea treatments are the ways that help sleep apnea patients live healthy lifestyles. The most common treatments usually include changing sleep positions, using CPAP machines, losing weight, or having sleep apnea surgery.
Is Sleep Apnea Safe?
No. Sleep apnea occurs in 3% of people with normal weight. However, the condition affects more than 20% of obese people. The lack of oxygen makes the patient awake so that he/she does not remember it. It usually makes the person less productive the next day.
You can record yourself while sleeping or ask your bed partner to notice your sleep habits. The major warning signs of sleep apnea include gasping or choking while sleeping or breathing poses while snoring.
As compared to OSA, central sleep apnea results in serious illnesses like heart stroke, brain stem or spinal injury, and neurological disease.
Undiagnosed sleep apnea directly links to the increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular health. But the frightening part is that the patient might not even know about the problem.
Sleep apnea causes sleep disturbances. It leads to difficulty in concentrating, daytime fatigue, enhanced risk of accidents, sleepiness, etc. Sleep apnea also creates a significant effect on mental health. It causes irritation and depression. The condition also enhances the risk of health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Hidden Dangers You Must Know
Below are the risks associated with sleep apnea:
High Blood Pressure or Heart Problems
Sleep apnea causes a sudden decline in blood oxygen. It increases stress on the cardiovascular system and blood pressure. Hypoxia or hypoxemia can result in sudden death from an irregular heartbeat.
Liver Issues
Sleep apnea can even cause liver issues. Even studies have shown that this sleep disorder causes damage to the liver or makes fatty liver disease worse.
Day Time Fatigue
Sleep apnea causes repeated awakenings at night. It leads to daytime irritation, drowsiness, and fatigue. Patients also find it hard to concentrate.
Type-2 Diabetes
One research shows that OSA changes the metabolism of glucose and promotes insulin resistance. It is linked with type-2 diabetes.
Complications With Surgery and Medicines
OSA interferes with a few medicines and general anesthesia. Those experiencing this condition also face complications after major surgery. Therefore, it is essential to tell your dentist near you about sleep apnea before any surgery.
Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome and OSA have a strong connection with each other. It increases the risk of heart disease. A metabolic syndrome includes a combination of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.
Sleep-Deprived Partners
Loud snoring caused by sleep apnea disturbs the sleep partner. So, visit a sleep medicine specialist immediately to treat your condition on time. It will help you and your sleep partner get a relaxed sleep during the night.
Home Tips for Sleep Apnea Sufferers
Below are the tips that help with sleep apnea:
Fix a Good Sleep Routine
Take a minimum of 8 to 9 hours of sleep daily and make it a habit.
Do Yoga
Practice exercises that promote relaxed sleep. Yoga increases the flow of oxygen and offers other advantages to overall health.
Use a Humidifier
If your sleep apnea is due to dry air, buying a humidifier can help. The appliance can help to open the airways and ensures clear breathing.
Maintain Healthy Weight
Obese people are at a high risk of getting obstructive sleep apnea. Therefore, reducing the extra pounds will help you reduce your neck size and live an active lifestyle.
Sleep on Your Side
Do not sleep on your back. Also, use a special pillow to keep your head up.
Sleep apnea treatment in Morristown, NJ at Dental Care of Morristown can help to minimize snoring, makes high blood pressure easy to treat, boosts your mood, and does much more.