Sleep Apnea on the Rise — Are You at Risk?

Obstructive sleep apnea has become increasingly common in recent years. In fact, it is now estimated that more than 22 million Americans suffer from it. This dangerous condition can have detrimental effects on an individual’s daily quality of life and put them at an increased risk of a number of serious health conditions, including heart attack and stroke. Does sleep apnea present a danger to you? In this article, we’ll discuss common risk factors for sleep apnea and what you can do to protect your health.

Who Is at Risk?

There are a few groups of people who are at an increased risk of suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA):

• Obese individuals. Some researchers believe that the rising incidences of OSA are due to increasing obesity rates in our nation. Excess body fat, especially around the neck, can lead to airway obstructions.
• Seniors. The muscles in the throat may weaken with age, causing problems with breathing.
• People who smoke. Cigarette smoking can cause increased inflammation throughout the body and affect the entire airway.
• Men. Statistics indicate that men are two to three times more likely than women to develop sleep apnea. However, postmenopausal women are roughly as likely as men to struggle with it.

Even if you do not belong to one of the above groups, that does not mean you are exempt from the possibility of developing OSA. Anyone, regardless of their weight, age, or lifestyle, could suffer from it.

Protecting Your Health

You may be able to reduce your risk of OSA by leading a balanced, healthy life. For example, you should do your best to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, avoid the use of cigarettes, and not overindulge in alcohol. Managing allergies that affect your sinuses could also help to facilitate easier breathing at night.

However, bear in mind that in many cases, good lifestyle choices alone are not enough to prevent sleep apnea. If you begin to notice signs and symptoms of it — such as loud snoring or frequent daytime exhaustion — you should seek professional help. A sleep doctor can arrange for you to be tested for OSA.

If you are diagnosed with it, you can begin exploring your treatment options. CPAP therapy is the most commonly prescribed method for addressing sleep apnea, but many patients find that an oral sleep appliance provided by a dentist is more comfortable. For a small number of people, surgery is the best way to address OSA.

Could you be among the millions of people with OSA? If you suspect that you are, seeking diagnosis and treatment can protect your health and help you enjoy the fullest life possible.

Meet Dr. Mogell

Dr. Kenneth Mogell, a board-certified specialist in sleep medicine with over 10 years of experience treating sleep breathing disorders is the practice’s founder and primary practitioner. The practice has three South Florida locations: Melbourne, Vero Beach, and Boca Raton. To learn more about Florida Dental Sleep Disorders and Dr. Kenneth Mogell, contact our team at 844-294-7559. We accept Medicare, Tricare and most medical insurance!