Obstructive sleep
apnea (OSA) is thought to affect nearly 20 million Americans alone, and
this life-threatening condition in which your breathing stops periodically
during sleep can impact anyone regardless of age, gender or race.
However, there are also
factors that indicate an increased risk for sleep apnea. If you suffer from
regular loud snoring or other symptoms of sleep
apnea and any of the risk factors detailed here apply to you, it is
advisable to seek diagnosis for sleep apnea.
Left untreated, OSA can
lead to daytime fatigue, recurring headaches and short-term memory problems as
well as heighten your risk for severe health problems such as heart attack and
hypertension. Traits that indicate a greater risk for developing sleep apnea
include:
- Overweight
- Large neck size
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Narrow airway
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
Smokers and those who
regularly consume alcohol or sedatives are also at increased risk for sleep apnea.
OSA is more common among men, especially those over the age of 60.
There are a number of
effective and comfortable sleep apnea
treatments available that can help you and your family restore healthy,
restful sleep. Many patients find success with the nightly use of custom-made
oral appliances, which are designed to fit snugly and maintain an open airway
as you sleep.