Comorbidities Associated with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed or is simply considered a nuisance by sufferers. However, there are several comorbidities associated with sleep apnea that have life-threatening implications. Sufferers may suffer one (comorbidity) or more (multimorbidity) of these conditions in addition to sleep apnea.
OSA can be difficult to recognize, as most people have no recollection of it ever happening. If the condition continues to go unnoticed and is not treated, people can experience serious, if not fatal, outcomes. Some sleep apnea risks including the following:
- Drowsiness
- Morning headaches
- Gastric reflux
- Memory problems
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Sexual dysfunction
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Sudden cardiac death
Treating sleep apnea can impact how some comorbidities develop. Struggling to breathe makes the heart work harder and beat faster, which can worsen cardiovascular conditions. At the Atlanta Sleep Apnea Treatment Center, we are focused on providing solutions that reinforce general health and well-being.
Recognizing Sleep Apnea
If you often wake up choking or gasping for breath, it could indicate that you are suffering from undiagnosed sleep apnea. Sufferers are usually reliant on a partner or spouse identifying symptoms; however, sleep apnea can be diagnosed as part of a sleep study. Dr. Suway, a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM) partners with Physicians who can properly diagnose patients that may suffer from sleep apnea and prescribe the most effective care available.
Oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment for sleep apnea, but there are other options. Lifestyle and diet can impact breathing during sleep. Making key changes may improve treatment outcomes, and this is something that Dr. Suway will discuss with every patient as part of the consultation process.
If you need treatment for a sleep disorder, contact Dr. Suway at the Atlanta Sleep Apnea Treatment Center. You will rest easy knowing that your airway is unobstructed during sleeping hours.
