Did you know the American Academy of Sleep Medicine estimates that about 30 million people in our country struggle with sleep apnea? Unfortunately, only about six million cases are properly diagnosed, and about 20 percent of the overall population shows signs of sleep apnea, according to more data from the National Sleep Foundation.
If these numbers include you or someone in your family, you might already know about the issues of finding treatment — especially if you’re using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. Sure, a CPAP can be effective but it can also be uncomfortable and inconvenient to use. Because we’re a holistic dental office in Wilmington, we aim to treat the causes of sleep apnea — something your CPAP doesn’t do. (It only addresses and alleviates symptoms!)
When you trust All About Smiles to treat your family’s oral health, you’ll find we don’t just focus on teeth; we understand the intricate connection between what’s happening in our mouth and your overall well-being. This can mean seeking help for your sleep apnea, or for someone you love. There’s more to sleep apnea than snoring! We invite you to embark on a fascinating journey aimed at unraveling the hidden dangers of sleep apnea and its potentially profound impact on your life expectancy.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Dr. Lewis Yu and Dr. Grace Liu are both very familiar with the adverse effects sleep apnea can have on a person’s health, whether you’re one or 100 years old. It’s a serious sleep disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing while your body is trying to rejuvenate or rest. While often associated with snoring, its consequences extend far beyond your mere nocturnal disturbances.
The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the soft tissues at the back of the throat collapse, obstructing the airway and impeding airflow. These pauses in breathing can occur numerous times throughout the night, leading to fragmented sleep and decreased oxygen supply to vital organs.
The Looming Threat: How Sleep Apnea Undermines Life Expectancy
The dangers of untreated sleep apnea in Wilmington are manifold, with one of the most alarming being its impact on life expectancy. Research has illuminated a stark correlation between severe sleep apnea and a shortened lifespan. Individuals suffering from untreated sleep apnea are at a significantly higher risk of developing life-threatening conditions such as:
But what makes sleep apnea such a formidable adversary to longevity? The answer lies in its insidious nature and ability to wreak havoc on the body’s physiological processes. During apnea episodes, the body is deprived of oxygen, triggering a cascade of events that strain your cardiovascular system. The heart must work harder to compensate for the decreased oxygen levels, leading to increased blood pressure and placing undue stress on your arteries. Over time, this chronic strain contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.
Beyond the Physical: Sleep Apnea’s Toll on Your Mental Health and Quality of Life
The dangers of sleep apnea extend beyond the physical realm; they permeate into every aspect of our lives, potentially affecting your:
Chronic sleep deprivation associated with sleep apnea can lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and impaired concentration, jeopardizing productivity and increasing the risk of accidents, both on the road and in the workplace. Moreover, the cognitive deficits stemming from poor sleep can impair memory, judgment, and decision-making skills, hindering one’s ability to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
The Holistic Approach to Sleep Apnea Management: Empowering Longevity and Well-being
At our biological and holistic dental office in Wilmington, DE, we recognize the critical role of dentistry in managing sleep apnea. Through a comprehensive approach that integrates dental expertise with a focus on whole-body wellness, we aim to provide effective solutions for sleep apnea that not only alleviate symptoms but also address the underlying causes.
Our doctors take the time to get to know you and what’s happening when you sleep. From there, we can determine if a comfortable, custom oral appliance would be an effective solution for better sleep. We tailor our treatments to suit the unique needs of each individual, empowering you to reclaim restful sleep and safeguard your health and longevity.
Find Relief By Taking the Next Steps
It’s easy to see how sleep apnea can pose a significant threat to your life expectancy, undermining not only your physical health but also your mental well-being and overall quality of life. By raising awareness about the dangers of untreated sleep apnea and advocating for comprehensive, holistic approaches to its management, we can help our family of patients overcome this silent adversary and pave the way toward a healthier, happier future.
Don’t hesitate to contact us! Better sleep is only a phone call away at (302) 600-1165. We’re ready to answer your questions and help you schedule a visit.
It all adds up to better health, smile, body, and spirit!