Did you know that an estimated 1 out of every 4 adults in the U.S. has sleep apnea? The most well-known symptoms are snoring and restless nights, but, unfortunately, there are far more serious consequences. In fact, some doctors estimate that sleep apnea triples a person’s risk of death. Oftentimes, people who aren’t overweight or don’t snore don’t get tested because they assume they’re not at risk. In this blog, you’ll find out why even healthy people should get sleep testing and learn about the risks sleep apnea poses to your general health. It’s information that can add years to your life!
How Does Sleep Apnea Affect Your General Health?
It goes without saying that feeling tired every day from restless nights impacts your work performance, mood, and relationships. Not to mention that loud snoring can put a strain on any marriage!
But researchers have found that sleep apnea also increases the risks of all the following:
• High blood pressure
• Impaired memory or cognitive function
• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Heart attack
• Sexual dysfunction
• Sudden death
Who Should Be Tested For Sleep Apnea ?
The most well-known risk factors for sleep apnea are age, excess body weight, nasal congestion, and alcohol or sedative use. But, even if none of these apply to you, you might still be at risk.
Studies have found surprising evidence that even healthy people such as endurance athletes may have sleep apnea. You might be an otherwise healthy person, but the struggle to breathe and get good-quality rest every night puts a lot of stress on your heart.
That’s why sleep testing in Denver is so important. Even if you don’t have the traditional risk factors, it’s still well worth it to get tested, especially treatment is simple and effective.
How Can Sleep Apnea Be Treated?
For many years, a CPAP machine or surgery were the only treatment options. Now, a dentist can make a custom-made oral appliance that repositions the jaw and opens the airway at night. These appliances are lightweight and portable, so they’re a lot easier to tolerate than a CPAP machine.
Sleep apnea can be fatal, even in otherwise healthy people who would never suspect that they have it. But with diagnosis and treatment, you can rest easy (no pun intended) knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to stay healthy!
About the Author
Dr. Gary Radz is an award-winning general dentist and sleep specialist who is a leader in his field. Having struggled with sleep apnea himself, he’s benefited tremendously from wearing an oral appliance and is thrilled to provide this treatment to help his patients lead healthier lives. If you think you might have sleep apnea and have any additional questions, he can be contacted via his website or at (303) 298-1442.