At least 12 million – 18 million adults in the U.S. have untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of death by four times
Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of death from heart disease by five times
80% of patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 have undiagnosed sleep apnea
30% of people with hypertension have sleep apnea
Untreated severe sleep apnea increases depression by 2.5 times and increases stroke by 3 times
Treatment of moderate and severe sleep apnea decreases the risk of heart attacks by 49 percent, strokes by 31 percent, and motor vehicle collisions by 52 percent
Sleep apnea and obesity are bidirectional. Untreated sleep apnea can make you feel hungry by increasing the hunger hormone, Ghrelin
10% weight gain is associated with 6 fold increased risk of sleep apnea
Treatment of moderate-to-severe OSA with CPAP therapy reduces the 10-year risk of motor vehicle collisions by 52 percent, heart attacks by 49 percent, and strokes by 31 percent
Airflow decreases or stops intermittently during sleep in patients with sleep apnea. There are two types of sleep apnea. In obstructive sleep apnea, airflow into lungs diminishes or stops intermittently during sleep due to the relaxation of muscles controlling the upper airway. In central sleep apnea, airflow diminishes or stops during sleep due to an abnormality in respiratory control from the brain.
Restless sleep, morning headaches, snoring, witnessed apnea by the bed partner, frequently waking up at night from gasping or choking, day time fatigue, dry mouth, frequent urination at night, memory loss, poor concentration, and insomnia.
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to numerous medical problems including heart attack, abnormal heart rhythm, uncontrolled hypertension, stroke, memory loss, and daytime fatigue. Untreated sleep apnea can also increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents from daytime sleepiness.
Treatment for sleep apnea improves quality of life by restoring healthy sleep, increasing energy levels, improving daytime alertness and concentration, as well as reducing feelings of depression. Treatment also improves blood glucose control, blood pressure control, and reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) and BIPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) are the most effective treatment options for sleep apnea. Alternative options include oral appliances, mandibular advancement devices, weight loss, and upper airway surgeries such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), and hypoglossal nerve stimulator placement.
Start finding the answers to your sleep problems today.
Start finding the answers to your sleep problems today.