Everyone snores occasionally, like when battling a cold, but if it’s an ongoing issue, it can be difficult for you or your spouse to get a good night’s rest. Although it may not seem too alarming, chronic snoring is a common symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which causes frequent disruptions in breathing while sleeping. An obstruction in the upper airway restricts breathing, which can deplete your body of oxygen. With no treatment, snoring will be the least of your concerns. Here are 6 health consequences you could face if you don’t seek treatment.
1. High Blood Pressure
Every time you stop breathing, your brain jolts you awake, which causes your hormones to go into overdrive. This makes your blood pressure rise as oxygen levels drop. If you already suffer from high blood pressure, sleep apnea can make it worse.
2. Heart Disease
Research has found a connection between sleep apnea and heart disease. Low oxygen can increase the risk of stroke, heart attacks, and atrial fibrillation. If sleep apnea isn’t treated, the long-term depletion of oxygen can affect how your blood flows through your arteries and the brain.
3. Type 2 Diabetes
Sleep apnea can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes because it can affect the way your body uses insulin. Lack of sleep is linked to diabetes and obesity, both of which are also risk factors for sleep apnea. Together, diabetes, obesity, and sleep apnea are a recipe for disaster for your overall wellness.
4. Obesity
Obesity is a risk factor for OSA; however, the breathing disorder can also lead to weight gain. Your body will release more of the hormone called ghrelin, which will trigger your sweet tooth. Losing weight can lessen your risk of issues associated with obesity, including sleep apnea.
5. Depression
Sleep apnea can affect how you feel throughout the day. Besides fatigue, poor sleep quality can also increase your risk of depression. You can also experience irritability, loss of concentration, and other changes to your mental health.
6. Sleep Deprivation
Not getting 7 to 9 hours of rest every night can lead to sleep deprivation. It can affect your ability to think clearly and slow your reaction times. As a result, patients with sleep apnea are linked to a greater risk of auto and workplace accidents.
Safeguard Your Health and Quality of Life
If you or your loved one are concerned about your snoring, do not ignore the issue. Your physician may recommend sleep testing to find the underlying cause. If a sleep apnea diagnosis is confirmed, they’ll create the personalized plan you need to keep your airways open. You’ll sleep peacefully knowing you’re getting quality rest to safeguard your health and wellness.
About Dr. Randy Machen
Dr. Machen has over 30 years of experience in dentistry. He earned his dental degree from the University of Tennessee and has completed continuing education in advanced services, like TMJ treatment and sleep apnea. If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, contact our office today to request your consultation for oral appliance therapy.