Startling Statistics: 3 Fascinating Facts About Sleep Apnea

If you’re consistently feeling drained when you wake up in the morning, no matter how many hours of rest you had the night before, then you might be suffering from undiagnosed sleep apnea. This condition causes your breathing to repeatedly stop and restart which interferes with a healthy sleep cycle. This can lead to day-long exhaustion in addition to oral issues and other physical concerns.

Keep reading to learn 3 fascinating facts about sleep apnea so you can prevent problems and get some well-deserved rest!

Fact #1: There Are Two Types

Many people mistakenly assume sleep apnea refers to a single set of circumstances when there are 2 distinctly different forms of this disorder. They are:

1. Obstructive sleep apnea. This is the more common type and occurs when your upper airway becomes partially or fully blocked while you’re asleep.
2. Central sleep apnea. This happens when the brain signals that control your breathing are interrupted at night.

When you get a medical diagnosis, you can then pursue the appropriate treatments from a professional that may be covered by your insurance policies. For example, your dentist can provide a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine or oral device, like a splint, to prevent it.

Fact #2: It Can Happen Hundreds of Times Each Night

You might be shocked to learn that this condition can disrupt your breathing not just once or twice, but hundreds of times every night. Each stage of your sleep cycle is responsible for restoring, repairing, and maintaining different physical, mental, and emotional processes. When these phases frequently stop and start, you could develop mood swings, chronic fatigue, and weakened immunity.

As a result, you’re less able to fight off infections like gum disease which can eventually enter your bloodstream and contribute to other problems like diabetes and heart disease. That makes sleep apnea a dangerous and sometimes life-threatening disorder.

Fact #3: Most Cases Are Undiagnosed

If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s worth visiting your doctor or dentist for an official diagnosis so you can get help sooner rather than later. It’s estimated that 80%-90% of cases remain undiagnosed, which means countless people aren’t getting the rest they need to feel active and healthy.

Many people believe that only men are prone to having this condition, but women can be impacted, too. While middle-aged or obese men are more likely to develop it, it can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or body weight.

Now that you know more about sleep apnea, you can see why it’s so important to address it sooner rather than later!

About the Practice

At Dental Excellence Melbourne, patients of all ages benefit from three experts who provide comprehensive dental services, including sleep apnea therapy. They take the time to get to know you and your dental goals and work cohesively together to offer individualized solutions to enhance your well-being. With state-of-the-art technology onsite, they can provide the most current and up-to-date treatments to address all of your needs. If you’re concerned about sleep apnea and would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (321) 255-0199.