Friday, June 20, 2014

New Study Links Sleep Apnea to Hearing Loss

Researchers who evaluated key characteristics of 14,000 subjects found that patients who suffer from sleep apnea are anywhere from 30% to 90% more likely to experience a loss in the ability to hear sounds on both the high and low ends of the audible sound spectrum. Snoring treatment could be a crucial step for patients suffering from sleep apnea who want to decrease their chances of hearing loss.

The scientists who conducted the study hypothesized that hearing loss could stem from intense vibrations in the inner ear due to the heavy snoring that often accompanies obstructive sleep apnea. Another theory: Blood flow to the ear is interrupted because of the inflammation symptomatic of sleep apnea.

Snoring and choking or gasping sounds during the night are both major signs that you might be suffering from sleep apnea. Typically other people, such as a spouse or roommate, would be the ones to tell you about these symptoms. You might also experience:

·         Dry mouth and sore throat
·         Fatigue upon waking up, as well as throughout the day
·         Headaches
·         Irritability
·         Problems staying focused

If any of these symptoms sound like you, seek treatment for snoring and sleep apnea immediately. A sleep physician can recommend minimally intrusive solutions such as a custom oral appliance and even home remedies to reposition the body to avoid snoring.

To find out more about snoring treatment, please contact a local sleep doctor or call 1-727-866-6275 (1-8-NO-PAP-MASK) today to schedule a consultation.

http://www.ihateheadaches.org/