February is American
Heart Month, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other
organizations have been highlighting the risks of heart disease and offering
tips for better heart health. One key area of focus related to cardiovascular
health is obstructive
sleep apnea (OSA).
Among the many dangers of sleep apnea
are heightened risks for:
- Heart attack
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Hypertension
- Stroke
Likewise, people with sleep
apnea or heart conditions often share risk factors including:
- Being overweight
- Having high blood pressure
- Having diabetes
Although it is
estimated that more than 20 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, many
people with sleep apnea are not aware they have a form of this potentially
deadly condition. Many sleep apnea symptoms,
such as chronic snoring or frequent sleep interruptions, go unnoticed or ignored
by those suffering from OSA.
Often, it is up to a
partner or other family member to encourage a loved one to seek diagnosis and
treatment for sleep apnea. Fortunately, there are an increasing number of
dentists who specialize in the field of dental sleep
medicine and a growing number of treatments.
Many instances of sleep
apnea can be treated with custom-made oral appliances
similar to sports mouthguards. These devices are designed to help keep your jaw
in proper alignment as you sleep in order to help you maintain an open airway.