If someone has ever told you that you snore at night, you might feel ashamed of the trouble this seemingly innocuous behavior causes. However, chronic snoring may not be as harmless as you think. It could be a sign that you have sleep apnea. Dentists in Smyrna, Georgia, like Dr. Aja Nichols at Lifestyle Dentistry, can help provide relief. If sleep apnea is left untreated, it can raise your chance of getting some diseases linked to the disorder. These include:
Cardiovascular Disease
Untreated sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Periodic pauses in exhalation during sleep lead to oxygen deprivation and cardiovascular strain, which in turn cause high blood pressure and inflammation. Untreated sleep apnea can eventually lead to chronic hypertension, arrhythmias in the heart, and a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Type 2 Diabetes
There is a strong association between untreated sleep apnea and the development or worsening of type 2 diabetes. Sleep apnea disrupts the body’s average hormonal balance, leading to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. Individuals with untreated sleep apnea face the risk of developing insulin resistance, obesity, and elevated blood sugar levels, all of which contribute to the onset and progression of type 2 diabetes. Managing sleep apnea is vital for preventing or controlling diabetes complications.
Obesity
Untreated sleep apnea is closely linked to weight gain and obesity. The disrupted sleep patterns and hormonal imbalances associated with sleep apnea have been related to increased appetite, cravings for high-calorie foods, overeating, and metabolic dysfunction, contributing to weight gain over time. Conversely, obesity can exacerbate sleep apnea by increasing soft tissue around the throat and narrowing the airway, further obstructing breathing during sleep. Managing sleep apnea through lifestyle modifications and treatment interventions can help manage weight and improve overall health.
Mental Health Disorders
Sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. The fragmented sleep and oxygen deprivation experienced by individuals with untreated sleep apnea can result in mood disturbances, irritability, and focusing difficulties during the day. Chronic sleep deprivation also affects neurotransmitter function and brain health, contributing to the onset or exacerbation of mental health conditions. Treating sleep apnea can enhance sleep quality and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Stroke
Untreated sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of experiencing a stroke. The intermittent drops in blood oxygen levels and sudden surges in blood pressure linked with sleep apnea are likely to damage blood vessels in the brain and increase the probability of blood clots forming. Untreated sleep apnea patients are more likely to experience ischemic strokes, which happen when a clot or plaque buildup blocks blood flow to the brain. Managing sleep apnea through lifestyle changes or medical interventions can reduce the risk of stroke and improve prevailing cardiovascular health.
Untreated sleep apnea is associated with a range of severe health conditions. Addressing sleep apnea is necessary to reduce the risk of these diseases and improve overall health and quality of life. If you suspect you have sleep apnea and are in the Smyrna, GA, area, please get in touch with Dr. Aja Nichols at Lifestyle Dentistry by calling (678) 884-4494.
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