The Hidden Dangers of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an unpleasant condition that restricts or obstructs a person’s breathing due to their throat muscles becoming relaxed and blocking their airway. OSA occurs continually for intervals of 10 to 30 seconds during sleep. Shockingly, this issue can happen 400 times per night!

Symptoms include loud snoring and choking noises that will likely leave you (and anyone sleeping near you) feeling exhausted the following day. But feeling tired should be the least of your worries, as sleep apnea also increases your risk of life-threatening health issues.

Health Risks Associated with OSA

• Hypertension: Untreated OSA is linked with high blood pressure. In some cases, the condition also makes medication less effective at controlling blood pressure.
• Heart disease: Sleep apnea limits the oxygen levels your body receives, making it harder for your brain to regulate the blood flow in your arteries and brain. As a result, people with OSA are more prone to heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation (a rapid, fluttering heartbeat) and blood clots in the pelvis or legs.
• Trouble Concentrating: Sleep apnea can make it more challenging to think clearly, resulting in disappointing work performance and dependence on stimulants like caffeine.
• AM Sleepiness: Feeling fatigued during the day is a common symptom of OSA. This can affect your mood.
• Weight Gain: Sleep apnea can lead to weight gain since your body craves sweets and carbs, but might not be able to turn the food into energy as efficiently due to its fatigue. In addition, when you’re overweight, fatty deposits in your neck can block breathing during sleep, increasing your chances of getting OSA, and the condition also makes it harder to lose weight.
• Fatal Car Accidents: Since OSA can make you highly sleepy, your chances of falling asleep while driving increase. As a result, the risk of being involved in and responsible for fatal car crashes is greater.
• Depression: OSA increases the risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
• Forgetfulness: OSA can lead to memory loss or thinking troubles, including mild cognitive impairment.

Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Atlanta

If you or a partner have OSA, you should not delay treatment. This sleeping disorder could shorten your life by up to 15 years! We offer several forms of treatment to address sleep apnea. Contact us today at Atlanta Sleep Apnea Treatment Center to schedule your consultation, so you can finally get a good night’s sleep.