Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous? Understanding the Dangers of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder causing an individual to stop breathing during sleep. These interruptions may last a few seconds to minutes and occur 30+ times an hour. Sleep disruptions result from inadequate oxygen supply to the brain and body, making sleep less beneficial.
The effects of sleep apnea lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and morning headaches. More severe effects include chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Therefore, if you experience signs of sleep apnea, you should contact our sleep apnea specialist, Dr. Brian McDowell, for an evaluation and to discuss treatment options.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
OSA is the most common type of sleep apnea, accounting for about 84% of cases. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when throat muscles overly relax while sleeping, leading to a narrowed or blocked airway. This obstruction prevents proper airflow, causing snoring and disrupted sleep. Risk factors for OSA include age, obesity, gender, and family history. Men are more likely to experience OSA than women. However, the risk for women increases post-menopause. Additionally, individuals with large neck circumference or narrow airways are more prone to OSA.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
Central sleep apnea is less about airway blockage and more about the brain’s communication with the muscles that control breathing. In CSA, the brain does not send proper signals, resulting in periods of no breathing. Central sleep apnea is often linked to heart diseases or conditions affecting the brainstem. Symptoms include abrupt awakenings accompanied by shortness of breath and difficulty staying asleep.
Complex Sleep Apnea
Complex sleep apnea, also called treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, combines elements of both OSA and CSA. Initially diagnosed as OSA, some individuals continue to experience involuntary pauses in breathing even after treatment, indicating a central component. This type requires specialized treatment as it addresses both obstructive and central aspects of the condition.
What Are The Dangers of Sleep Apnea When Left Untreated?
Ignoring sleep apnea can have severe consequences on one’s physical and mental well-being. The dangers of untreated sleep apnea extend far beyond feeling tired during the day.
Cardiovascular Complications
One of the most significant risks associated with untreated sleep apnea is cardiovascular disease. Patients experience drops in blood oxygen levels, which strains their cardiovascular system. As a result, they experience an increase in blood pressure that leads to a significant risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.
Studies show that individuals with untreated sleep apnea are two to four times more likely to suffer from heart disease. When sleep apnea is left untreated, patients increase their risk of irregular heart rhythms.
Metabolic Disorders
Another danger of sleep apnea is insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. When sleep apnea patients experience sleep disruptions, they can have hormonal imbalances that affect glucose metabolism and increase the risk of developing diabetes.
Furthermore, weight gain is both a cause and consequence of sleep apnea. The lack of restful sleep affects appetite-regulating hormones, leading to overeating and unhealthy weight gain. Addressing sleep apnea can aid in weight management and reduce the risk of metabolic disorders.
Cognitive and Emotional Impact
Patients should not underestimate the cognitive effects of sleep apnea. The chronic sleep deprivation linked to the disorder affects memory, concentration, and decision-making. This can impact professional and personal life, decreasing productivity and strained relationships. Additionally, untreated sleep apnea is associated with mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. The constant fatigue and irritability caused by sleep apnea can exacerbate these conditions, creating a vicious cycle that is challenging to break.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
Early diagnosis is vital to prevent long-term health effects. Dr. McDowell begins the diagnostic process with a comprehensive medical history and physical examination involving a series of assessments and tests. Our sleep apnea specialist in Fitchburg, Dr. Brian McDowell, will inquire about your sleep patterns, daytime fatigue, and any other symptoms you are experiencing.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Our sleep apnea specialist in Fitchburg, Dr. Brian McDowell, will discuss various treatment options and personalize a treatment plan that provides an optimal outcome for the type and severity of your sleep apnea.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
A CPAP requires an individual to wear a mask covering their nose and mouth during sleep and is a standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. The device provides patients with continuous air to keep the airway open. While CPAP is effective, many patients find it bulky and uncomfortable.
Oral Appliances
Many Fitchburg patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea seek out custom oral appliances. These custom devices are worn in the mouth during sleep, repositioning the jaw to prevent airway collapse.
Oral appliances are custom-made to each patient’s unique anatomy by sleep apnea experts like Brian McDowell DDS, LVIF. They effectively relieve many patients, reducing the frequency and severity of apneic events.
Surgical Options
In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to address structural issues causing sleep apnea. Dr. Brian McDowell may recommend surgery if other treatments are ineffective to enlarge the airway and improve airflow.
Schedule A Sleep Apnea Evaluation
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to contact our sleep apnea expert, Brian McDowell, DDS LVIF FIAPA, at (978) 252-2049 for a sleep apnea evaluation in Fitchburg. Addressing sleep apnea can significantly improve your physical and mental well-being.
