You might not realize you have it, but you feel the damaging effects: daytime fatigue, headaches, difficulty concentrating, irritability, depression. All these chronic problems and more stem from sleep apnea, a dangerous condition characterized by repeated cessations in breathing during sleep.
Sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax during sleep, blocking the airway. This lack of airflow between your mouth and lungs, and momentary pause in breathing, alerts your body to partially or fully awaken to begin breathing again. These repeated interruptions in both breathing and restful sleep, sometimes occurring up to 30 times every hour, make it impossible to get a good night’s sleep and pose a serious health risk if not treated.
Here are 3 reasons why you should treat your sleep apnea:
You’ll experience more restful, rejuvenating sleep
One of the most noticeable benefits of treating sleep apnea is the increase in quality of sleep. Patients who can breathe easily through the night get deeper, more restful sleep and wake refreshed. A good night’s sleep improves your daytime mood, increases your productivity, and makes it easier to lead a healthy, active life.
You’ll help avoid serious long-term health problems
Obstructive sleep apnea doesn’t just mess with your quality of sleep; it can diminish your health and increase your risk for serious medical issues. Sleep apnea has been linked to high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, heart attacks and stroke, and in worst cases, early death. Treating sleep apnea and incorporating healthier lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk of these life-threatening problems.
You’ll be able to improve your physical and mental health
Sleep apnea, and the resulting chronic fatigue, can make it difficult to live a healthy, energized, and active life. By treating your sleep apnea, you’ll be able to regain the energy lost due to poor sleep and have more liveliness to eat healthier, exercise more, and stay positive and happy.
Schedule your appointment
If a partner says you snore or wake frequently at night, or you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, don’t wait to be treated. Schedule a consultation with your local dentist today.
