Facts About Sleep Apnea
At least 12 – 18 million adults in the U.S have untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of death by four times.
Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of death from heart disease by five times.
80% of patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 have undiagnosed sleep apnea.
30% of people with hypertension have sleep apnea.
Untreated severe sleep apnea increases depression by 2.5 times and increases stroke by 3 times.
Treatment of moderate and severe sleep apnea with CPAP therapy decreases the risk of heart attacks by 49%, strokes by 31%, and motor vehicle collisions by 52%.
Sleep apnea and obesity are bidirectional. Untreated sleep apnea can make you feel hungry by increasing the hunger hormone, Ghrelin.
10% weight gain is associated with 6-fold increased risk of sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is more common in males than in females.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Sleep Apnea?
There are two types of sleep apnea. In obstructive sleep apnea, airflow into lungs diminishes or stops intermittently during sleep due to the relaxation of muscles controlling the upper airway. In central sleep apnea, airflow diminishes or stops during sleep due to an abnormality in respiratory control from the brain.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Restless sleep, morning headaches, snoring, witnessed apnea by the bed partner, frequently waking up at night from gasping or choking, day time fatigue, dry mouth, frequent urination at night, memory loss, poor concentration, and insomnia.
What are the risk factors associated with sleep apnea?
- Overweight / Obesity
- Large neck circumference
- Male gender
- Age
- Alcohol
- Sedative medications
- Family history
What are the consequences of untreated sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to numerous medical problems including heart attack, abnormal heart rhythm, uncontrolled hypertension, stroke, memory loss, and daytime fatigue. Untreated sleep apnea can also increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents from daytime sleepiness.
Why do I need treatment for sleep apnea?
Treatment for sleep apnea improves quality of life by restoring healthy sleep, increasing energy levels, improving daytime alertness and concentration, as well as reducing feelings of depression. Treatment also improves blood glucose control, blood pressure control, and reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
What are the treatment options for sleep apnea?
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) and BIPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) are the most effective treatment options for sleep apnea. Alternative options include oral appliances, mandibular advancement devices, weight loss, and upper airway surgeries such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), and hypoglossal nerve stimulator placement.
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