Why Sleep Apnea Is So Serious

sleep apnea Mableton, GA

One of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea is snoring during the night. This may seem like a minor annoyance for you or for your partner. However, you may not have realized just how serious this condition can be for you. Treating sleep apnea, whether it is mild or severe, is extremely important for your overall health and quality of life.

High blood pressure from sleep apnea

For patients who already have high blood pressure, sleep apnea can worsen the blood pressure problems. Waking up during the night many times can make the body stressed. This can increase levels of hormones, which can cause blood pressure to go up. The lack of sufficient oxygen in the blood pressure can also cause issues with blood pressure. However, getting sleep apnea treatment can help to reduce high blood pressure.

Heart attacks

Waking up so often during the night can increase the body’s levels of stress. This, combined with low oxygen levels, can lead to atrial fibrillation as well as strokes. Because the flow of oxygen in the body has been disrupted, it is more difficult for the brain to control how the blood will flow into the brain and the arteries in the body.

Weight gain and diabetes

As many as 80% or more of people who have diabetes also have obstructive sleep apnea. While there is no link yet between diabetes and sleep apnea, not getting enough sleep can prevent the body from properly using insulin. This can lead to diabetes.

Sleep apnea is linked to weight gain. Weighing too much can increase an individual’s chances of having both diabetes and sleep apnea. This leads to a vicious circle because sleep apnea can prevent individuals from properly losing the extra pounds.

Not sleeping properly at night can cause sleepiness during the day. This can cause individuals to be less likely to get the exercise that they need during the day. The hormones that are released from a lack of sleep can also cause people to crave sweets and carbs more often than usual.

Daytime tiredness

While being tired during the day is not in itself a serious health condition, it can cause more problems. For example, people who are tired during the day are more likely to fall asleep while driving. Being groggy can also impair the brain’s function. This, in turn, can cause an individual to react slower while at the wheel. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, people who have sleep apnea are about two and a half times more likely to have traffic accidents.

Visit a dentist today

The good news is that you have a variety of options to treat your sleep apnea. A dental appliance is a popular method for treating sleep apnea. It can prevent your tongue or your lower jaw from falling into your airway. Visiting a dentist will allow you to get the treatment that you need for your sleep apnea.

Request an appointment here: https://www.providencefamilydentistry.com or call Providence Family Dentistry at (678) 496-7021 for an appointment in our Mableton office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Reasons To Treat Sleep Apnea With A Dental Oral Appliance

Wondering how to treat your sleep apnea? This sleep disorder causes you to stop breathing during the night, which is caused by either your tongue or excess tissues blocking the back of your throat. Common signs associated with this condition include snoring, headaches, a dry throat, grinding or clenching teeth, mood swings, feeling tired and…

How Preventive Dentistry Can Avoid A Serious Dental Issue

Practicing preventive dentistry strategies can help you avoid serious dental problems. It can support your personal goals in keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Prevention is always better than going through treatments for serious dental problems. If you want to know how preventive dentistry can avoid the development of a serious oral problem, here are…

How A Restorative Dentist Can Restore Your Teeth

If you have dental issues that have made you less confident in your smile, you should consider consulting with a restorative dentist. The dentist will evaluate your smile and let you know how to restore the look of your teeth and, ultimately, your confidence in your smile. Continue reading to find out what restorative dental…

What Services Fall Under Preventive Dentistry?

Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on protecting your mouth against common dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. It include simple things that you can do independently, like practicing oral hygiene, and procedures performed by dentists, like dental cleanings.Taking good care of your mouth makes you less likely to develop…

Recent Posts

How A Dental Sealant Protects Teeth From Cavities

How A Dental Sealant Protects Teeth From Cavities

Thinking about getting dental sealant treatment? Dental sealants are a vital tool for preventing cavities or tooth decay. Tooth decay is a prevalent condition among children and teenagers, and when unchecked, it can lead to other serious oral issues such as premature tooth loss and gum disease. In combination with other preventive care measures such…

Adjusting To New Dentures: The Best Methods For Your New Smile

Adjusting To New Dentures: The Best Methods For Your New Smile

If you have recently replaced a mouthful of teeth, you are probably adjusting to new dentures. Although dentures greatly improve your smile, this does not mean you immediately become used to wearing them. The good news is there are methods you can use to help adjust, and in about a month, your dentures should start…