Sleep Apnea is a condition that is caused by an obstruction in the airways while one is sleeping. This can cause a person to stop breathing during their sleep which can lead to serious health risks. Although snoring does not necessarily mean a person has this condition, many people who snore do. Most people are not even aware they stop breathing unless their partner or someone else informs them. If one suspects they may have the condition, it is important they seek testing and treatment right away.
There are many risks for this condition, including:
- If a person has this condition, they are more likely to develop high blood pressure because the stress of constantly waking in the night and the lack of oxygen flow. If a person already has high blood pressure, this condition will make it worse. The good news is, treatment for Sleep Apnea often results in lowered blood pressure.
- Those who have obstructive apnea will find they are at a higher risk of developing heart disease or suffering a heart attack. This condition can lead to a rapid, fluttering heartbeat and stroke. With a lack of oxygen, the brain cannot properly control blood flow through the body.
- Those who have this will often pack on the pounds, even if they attempt to diet and exercise. As the weight rises, this makes the obstruction more pronounced and causes further breathing issues during the night.
- People who have been diagnosed with apnea are often diagnosed with Type II diabetes as well. The two seem to run hand in hand with around 80% of Type II diabetics having the condition.
- This condition can also cause a person to experience acid reflux which can further cause sleep disturbances. Although a direct correlation has not yet been found, many with obstructive apnea also deal with reflux issues.
Thankfully, there are now many treatments available for this condition which can keep the airways open for normal breathing while sleeping. This can improve a person’s health and prevent chronic fatigue. They provide the dental treatments patients need for healthy smiles.
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