Why Sleep Apnea Should Never Be Ignored

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, or if you suspect sleep apnea, you need to know how serious this condition is. Sleep apnea can be treated with the help of your dentist in Columbia, SC. The next time you see your dentist, talk about your sleep apnea condition. Here are some reasons why sleep apnea should never be ignored.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition that affects countless individuals around the world. It’s a type of breathing disruption that occurs while a person is asleep, hence the name. Sleep apnea negatively affects a person in a variety of ways, from mild to severe. In the worst cases, sleep apnea can lead to heart problems. For many people, the worst part of sleep apnea as far as symptoms go, is disruption of a bed partner’s sleep. However, the potential hazards of sleep apnea extend beyond the inconvenience of an irritated partner.

The Dangers of Ignoring Sleep Apnea

One of the main concerns about ignoring sleep apnea is that it is linked to cardiovascular health deterioration. Individuals with sleep apnea exhibit a higher rate of stroke and heart attack than those who don’t suffer with this condition.

Another hazard associated with sleep apnea is diabetes. Many sleep apnea sufferers are critically overweight, defined as being 30 pounds or more above a healthy weight range. The correlation between obesity, sleep apnea, and diabetes is well-documented. In turn, diabetes can result in vascular disease or even necessitate amputation in severe circumstances.

Remember that sleep apnea often indicates a more significant health concern. By managing sleep apnea promptly with your dental professional’s help, you can more easily enjoy better health and potentially pinpoint any underlying health conditions that may be contributing to the sleep apnea. In this way, you, your dentist and your physician can be on the same team to improve your health.

Finally, know that your dentist is very familiar with sleep apnea. You needn’t be embarrassed about discussing this condition during your next dental visit. In fact, sleep apnea in Columbia, SC is much more common than you probably realize. Contact us to learn more about how we can help with sleep apnea.