What happens if sleep apnea is left untreated?
Heavy snoring is often a major symptom of sleep apnea…but unlike snoring, sleep apnea is a serious medical issue that will drastically impact your health if left untreated.
Sleep apnea causes or aggravates many significant medical problems, including:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Acid Reflux
- Weight gain
- Weakened immune system
- Memory loss
- Abnormal heartbeats
- Decreased sex drive
Don’t wait for sleep apnea to seriously affect your physical and mental health. Schedule a consultation for an oral appliance with Dr. Dailey today to address your sleep apnea symptoms.
Sleep Apnea and Your Heart
Among other issues, sleep apnea interferes with your health by depriving your body of essential oxygen. In time, sleep apnea causes lasting damage to various organs and bodily systems. It’s particularly detrimental to your cardiovascular system, which spreads oxygenated blood throughout your body.
Sleep apnea can dramatically increase your risk for high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks. If you have sleep apnea, you must get the treatment you need so you can begin reversing the dangerous effects of the disorder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sleep apnea life-threatening?
Yes, sleep apnea can be life-threatening. Untreated or inadequately managed sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of serious health conditions, including cardiovascular problems, hypertension, and an elevated risk of strokes, making timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment crucial for overall well-being.
How can I reduce my risk of sleep apnea?
When combined with professional treatment, making certain lifestyle changes may be beneficial in reducing sleep apnea symptoms. Some effective natural remedies that Dr. Dailey recommends include:
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Exercise regularly (yoga specifically promotes oxygen flow)
- Change your sleep position, also referred to as positional therapy
- Use a humidifier to open your airways
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, especially before bedtime
What Are Your Next Steps?
If you’re suffering from sleep apnea symptoms, schedule a consultation with our Sleep Care Coordinator by calling (734) 996-0055. During your consultation, she’ll review your symptoms, examine your mouth and throat, and determine if you might benefit from a sleep study. Once diagnosed, Dr. Regina M. Dailey can begin treatment right away to help you achieve quality sleep.
Your Sleep Dentist in Ann Arbor
Dr. Regina M. Dailey is recognized as a Diplomate by the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. This is the highest honor they can award to a sleep dentist.
To learn more about sleep apnea, give us a call today. Or, just fill out the submission form to talk to our Sleep Care Coordinator.