You may be surprised to learn that the number of people living with sleep apnea is increasing. While many cases remain undiagnosed because of overlooked symptoms, the problem remains – inadequate rest due to airway blockage. Keep reading to learn why this condition is becoming more common among individuals of all ages and what you can do to prevent it.
What is Causing the Rise in Sleep Apnea Cases?
There are several risks associated with sleep apnea, some of which include:
- Enlarged tonsils/adenoids
- Large neck circumference
- Family history of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Facial developments (i.e., small lower jaw)
- Narrow airway
- Smoking or the use of tobacco products
One of the most common, however, is obesity. Individuals who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop sleep apnea because of an increased accumulation of fat around the neck. The more there is, the greater the strain that is placed on the airway. As a result, when oral tissues collapse during the night, it easily blocks the airway, making it difficult to breathe freely.
What Potential Dangers Exist?
Failing to receive treatment for sleep apnea poses many dangers. Patients often dismiss these as unlikely events; however, if any of the following occur, it should not be taken lightly:
- High blood pressure
- Chronic daily fatigue
- Drowsy driving
- Weight gain
- Type 2 diabetes
- Stroke
- Heart failure/heart disease
- Adult asthma
- Acid reflux
- Depression
- Memory less
- Decreased work productivity
What Can You Do to Keep from Experiencing Poor Sleep?
If you want to avoid developing sleep apnea and lower your risk, there are certain things you can do, such as:
- Adopting an exercise routine that keeps your body moving
- Incorporating healthy foods into your daily diet instead of eating lots of sugar and starch
- Establishing a sleep routine, ensuring you get ample rest each night
- Make your bedroom or sleeping area a place of comfort for optimal rest (i.e., cool sheets, blackout curtains, lowered temperature, etc.)
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
- Quit smoking and using tobacco
- Talk to a sleep expert if you begin to notice symptoms of sleep apnea (i.e., loud snoring, chronic fatigue, irritability, forgetfulness, etc.)
Even if you have one or more of the many risk factors associated with sleep apnea, you can take steps to lower the chances of developing this common condition. Prioritizing your overall well-being will have you experiencing greater rest and waking up ready to face each new day.
About the Practice
At Star Sleep & Wellness in Frisco, our experts want to help you minimize your risk as well as treat your symptoms of sleep apnea. Whether it’s talking about ways to improve your nutrition and body movement, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, or providing reliable treatment in the form of a CPAP or oral appliance, contact us to schedule a consultation today.