How Dangerous is Sleep Apnea?

Casual conversations about snoring and the intermittent moments of non-breathing are often amusing and sometimes embarrassing for the person who snores. Although the stories may be funny, the truth is, sleep apnea can be a serious sleep disorder. Those suffering from this dangerous condition and their partners may smile at the anecdotes, but the reality of the disorder is nothing to laugh at.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three main types of sleep apnea:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – This is the most common type. During sleep, the throat muscles relax and close off the airway.
• Central sleep apnea (CSA) – This type occurs when the muscles that control breathing do not get the proper signals from the brain.
• Complex sleep apnea syndrome – This is a combination of the above disorders. It is also called treatment-emergent central sleep apnea.

These sleep disorders have been linked with other serious health problems such as heart problems, strokes, type 2 diabetes and a shortened lifespan. Many people who have these sleep disorders are obese and obesity increases the risk for these health issues. Even though this is true, it is also true that not everyone with sleep apnea is overweight.

The Grim Statistics

The associated health problems that are linked with sleep apnea are cause for concern. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, about 38,000 people in the U.S. die each year due to heart disease, with sleep apnea as a complicating factor.

A study published by the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine revealed that the risk of stroke is raised by two or three times in individuals who have sleep apnea. Another study from the Yale School of Medicine discovered that over a period of three to five years, the chance of heart attack or death is increased by 30%.

Treatment is Important

Those statistics were just a few of the studies that have been done on the subject. The bottom line is that untreated sleep apnea does have the potential to bring your life to a shorter end.

There are myriad devices and gadgets you can get to help you stop snoring, but the better route to go is to check in with a professional who can determine how severe your condition is and make recommendations for effective treatment.

Treating sleep apnea not only means a better night’s rest for you and your partner, it could also save your life.

Atlanta Sleep Apnea Treatment Center will help you get the rest you need and guide you on your journey to better health. Contact us to schedule an appointment.