Sleep apnea is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, but especially in the United States. This is a condition that occurs when the upper airway becomes blocked repeatedly while you sleep. This reduces and can even completely halt airflow. Approximately 22 million Americans are living with this condition and 80% of cases of moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea cases are undiagnosed. Sleep apnea is not only dangerous, but it is also on the rise. Continue reading to learn why more and more people are suffering from sleep apnea in Stephens City.
Why Is Sleep Apnea on the Rise?
With so many more people being diagnosed with sleep apnea, there has to be a reason for it. For many patients, this condition can be related to one of its highest and most common risk factors: obesity! When you have excessive body weight, this contributes to sleep apnea by putting more pressure on the upper airways while you sleep. This can cause them to collapse and experience decreased neuromuscular control for fatty deposits.
Obesity is becoming more common across the globe, but especially right here in the United States. It is generally due to consuming more high-calorie, high-fat foods as well and little physical activity. Processed foods containing lots of artificial ingredients, sugar, and salt are often cheaper and easier to transport because they last longer than fresh, nutritious foods. Even though these products are easier on the wallet, they are detrimental for your health! By eating a nutritious diet and staying active, you can significantly reduce your risk for sleep apnea and other dangerous health conditions.
How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?
Depending on the severity of sleep apnea, it is usually treated in one of the following ways:
- Lifestyle Changes: For patients with mild sleep apnea, lifestyle changes can be effective. By losing weight, abstaining from alcohol and tobacco usage, and sleeping in certain positions, the condition can be lessened.
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): This is the most common treatment for patients with sleep apnea. It involves the patient wearing a mask over their nose while they are sleeping. The mask is hooked up to a machine that will deliver a constant flow of air into the nose. This helps to keep the airways open so breathing is made easier throughout the night.
- Oral Appliances: If a patient has mild to moderate sleep apnea and is unable to tolerate or get relief from CPAP, they may find an oral appliance effective. They are constructed by a dentist and worn in the mouth at night. Generally, they place the jaw in a forward position in order to maintain an open airway.
Even though cases of sleep apnea are going up, it doesn’t need to affect you! By making good lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk!
About the Author
Dr. Thomas A. Gromling is an experienced dentist whose career in the field spans nearly 40 years so far! He is committed to regularly participating in continuing education courses and is a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. He is also a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. For more information on sleep apnea or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (540) 869-4377.