According to a recent survey by researchers at Laval University in Quebec City, Quebec, up to 40% of Canadians may suffer from sleep disorders, like insomnia or sleep apnea. According to the survey of 2000 people from across Canada, 40% suffered from symptoms of sleep apnea or insomnia. However, only 20% of those surveyed were unsatisfied with the quality of their sleep, and an even smaller number, 13%, had actually seen a doctor about sleep problems.
Another problem is that when people do attempt to improve their sleep, they go about it in ways that may actually hurt their sleep. The survey found that 21% of respondents had used natural products, over-the-counter drugs, or even alcohol in an attempt to treat their sleep problems. Unfortunately, when used without guidance, these products may actually do more harm than good. Natural products and many over-the-counter drugs have not been tested and may have serious side effects. Alcohol has been shown to increase the incidence of obstructive sleep apnea, and over-the-counter sleep medications may do so as well.
Whether you live in the US or Canada, if you are suffering from the symptoms of sleep apnea, you need to get treatment to ensure you avoid the serious dangers of the condition. To learn more about proven, successful sleep apnea treatment, please contact a local sleep dentist today.