Is Sleep Apnea on the Rise?

If you’re noticing more advertisements for sleep apnea awareness, you’re not imagining things. Cases of sleep apnea are on the rise. Contrary to common belief, the risks associated with the sleep disorder involve more than just chronic snoring. Untreated sleep apnea can have potentially deadly complications. Here’s what you need to know about the increase in cases and what you can do to safeguard your health.

Why Is Sleep Apnea on the Rise?

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most prevalent form of the disorder. It occurs when an obstruction in the upper airway causes frequent pauses in breathing, depriving the body of oxygen potentially hundreds of times per night. The obstruction often results from the soft tissues in the back of the mouth or throat collapsing, which is why snoring is a common symptom.

Studies show 1 in 15 adults has obstructive sleep apnea, which is about 18 million people in the U.S. Although that number may seem alarming, up to 80% of people are undiagnosed. Besides the prevalence of sleep apnea, the risks linked to it are also gaining attention. The National Commission of Sleep Disorders Research reports that 38,000 deaths occur annually due to cardiovascular issues linked to sleep apnea.

The rate of sleep apnea is climbing because of the growing cases of obesity in the U.S. Although various factors cause sleep apnea, obesity is a leading culprit because of fatty deposits on the neck. As a result, physicians may refer patients for a sleep study based on their body mass index.

Besides an unhealthy weight, there are better diagnostic tools and improved awareness, which is further driving the trend. As physicians learn more about health conditions linked to the disorder, they can monitor patients of all ages for sleep apnea to provide quick detection and intervention.

What are the Risks of Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can significantly decrease your quality of life from inadequate rest, leading to sleep deprivation, depression, and memory loss. The complications don’t end there. Several serious health conditions are connected to the disorder, including cardiovascular disease.

Safeguarding Your Health and Wellness

Symptoms of sleep apnea aren’t anything to ignore, like chronic snoring, morning headaches, or daytime fatigue. If you suspect that you have the disorder, especially if you’re overweight, it’s important to undergo a sleep study. If the results conclude you have sleep apnea, you have multiple options to treat the issue, including:

• CPAP: A machine delivers a steady stream of air pressure through a mask worn over the nose while sleeping to maintain oxygen levels.
• Oral Appliance: The custom-fit appliance repositions the lower jaw to prevent the tongue and soft tissues from blocking the airway.

Although cases of sleep apnea are on the rise, you can sleep soundly and breathe better with a few changes to your lifestyle. When sleep apnea therapy is combined with a healthy diet and weight, you may be able to resolve the breathing disorder. You can achieve permanent relief from sleep apnea while trimming your waistline.

About Dr. Stephen Dean

Dr. Dean is more than just a dentist. He is a sleep apnea expert. Besides earning his dental degree and undergoing continuing education at the Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute, he has also completed advanced courses in sleep apnea treatment. As a member of various professional organizations, including the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, he has the solutions you need to breathe easier. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation for sleep apnea therapy.