Thursday, August 2, 2012

The Life-Threatening Dangers of Obstructive Sleep Apnea


Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common and life-threatening sleep disorder thought to affect more than 20 million Americans. Yet its dangers are only beginning to be understood by the public at large.

OSA can affect children and adults regardless of gender or race. Recent public awareness campaigns backed by clinical research and an increasing number of treatment options available through the growing field of dental sleep medicine have helped educate people about the potential risks of OSA and other forms of sleep apnea as well as the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

If not treated, obstructive sleep apnea can increase your risk for:

  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Hypertension
  • Cardiac arrhythmia
  • Diabetes
  • Depression
  • Impotence
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Gastric reflux
  • Fibromyalgia

Some recent studies also suggest a link between sleep apnea and a risk for developing certain forms of cancer.

If you or your partner experiences nightly loud snoring or other sleep apnea symptoms, a qualified sleep dentist may be able to diagnose your condition and recommend a custom sleep apnea treatment. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices are just one treatment option; for many patients, oral appliances are a comfortable and effective way of correcting the airway blockage that leads to OSA.

If you would like to learn more about sleep apnea assessment and treatment, please contact IHateCPAP.com to locate a dentist near you who specializes in sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment.

http://www.ihateheadaches.org/