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Do you find yourself feeling exhausted even after a full night’s sleep? Are you constantly snoring and waking up gasping for air? If so, you may be among the millions suffering from a common yet often overlooked sleep disorder called sleep apnea. While it may seem harmless initially, untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems that you should not ignore. In this blog post, we will explore the hidden dangers of untreated sleep apnea and provide valuable insights on protecting your health if you or someone you know is affected by this condition.
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems.
Untreated sleep apnea is not something to take lightly. Your breathing repeatedly stops and starts at night, often without realizing it. This disruption in your sleep.
Excess daytime fatigue is one of the most immediate dangers of untreated sleep apnea. When you don’t get enough quality rest at night due to interrupted breathing, it’s no wonder you feel tired throughout the day. This constant lack of energy can impact your productivity, mood, and overall quality of life.
But fatigue is just the tip of the iceberg regarding the potential risks of untreated sleep apnea. Research has linked this condition to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, obesity, diabetes, depression, and even certain types of cancer. The repetitive drops in oxygen levels during episodes of obstructed breathing strain your cardiovascular system and increase inflammation throughout your body.
Additionally, untreated sleep apnea can worsen medical conditions such as asthma or respiratory problems because it stresses your lungs and airways extra. It may also impair cognitive function over time by affecting memory consolidation and concentration abilities.
Why do you need to contact a professional dentist for the treatment
There are just a few board-certified dental sleep apnea specialists in Oregon, and Dr. Skinner is one of them. The dentists at Hillsboro Dental Excellence are exceptionally skilled and knowledgeable about the sinuses, throat, and mouth anatomy. Same as how they impact your slumbering breath. Their staff will review the reasons for sleep apnea and assist you in locating the right treatment. Their treatments include:
Invisalign. By realigning your teeth, you can alter how your tongue and jaw are positioned, widening your airway and relieving pressure from your teeth on your tongue.
Nightlase. This non-surgical laser therapy makes your airway larger and less prone to become blocked by shrinking and tightening the tissues surrounding your neck, tongue, and other tissues. Surgery may only sometimes be necessary.
Orally appliqué. A mouthguard-like dental appliance for sleep apnea made specifically for your teeth is intended to retain your jaw in a posture that widens your throat and airway.
Expands the palate. Your sinuses and palate can be gradually expanded using a personalized palate expander to maintain an open airway and enhance airflow as you sleep.
Conclusion
It is crucial to recognize the hidden dangers of untreated sleep apnea and take steps to protect your health. And remember, it is a serious condition that can lead to various health problems. From cardiovascular issues and high blood pressure to increased risk of accidents and decreased quality of life, the consequences of ignoring sleep apnea you cannot ignore.
