It’s estimated that 50% of people snore at some point during their life.
Sleep apnea is a more serious, but also common sleep disorder. Snoring and sleep apnea are related. Many people who snore also have sleep apnea. But there are important differences.
Why Is Sleep Apnea So Dangerous?
Snoring alone doesn’t cause breathing to stop. People who suffer from sleep apnea stop breathing. This can happen many times during the night. When the brain is deprived of oxygen—not surprisingly—serious problems can occur. Even death.
Sleep apnea sufferers are at risk for heart problems including high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. They are also at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
One of the most common problems is daytime fatigue. This makes daily activities more difficult. Untreated sleep apnea lowers the quality of life.
The health consequences are not limited to the person with the condition. Their bed partner is also deprived of restorative sleep and, as such, is at risk of health complications.
Wondering if your health issues are a result of sleep apnea?
If you suffer from daytime sleepiness, or your partner says you stop breathing temporarily during sleep, see your doctor right away. If you want to start with a specialist, ask your primary doctor for a recommendation. In the U.S., the American Board of Sleep Medicine certifies physicians who treat sleep disorders.
Your doctor will diagnose whether you have sleep apnea and which of the three types you have. This may require a visit to a sleep disorder clinic.
If your physician diagnoses your condition as Obstructive Sleep Apnea, don’t assume that there is only one treatment.
Sleep apnea can be treated with an oral appliance, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), or surgery.
If your healthcare provider believes you are a candidate for a dental appliance, consult Marcos Ortega DDS.
Contact Marcos Ortega DDS:
619-860-0032
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
306 Walnut Ave Ste 25
San Diego, California
92103