The Dangers of Not Treating Sleep Apnea in Jacksonville

Have you been told that you snore loudly or make gasping sounds when you’re asleep? If so, you could be suffering from sleep apnea in Jacksonville, a serious condition that affects over 22 million Americans. This dilemma is further magnified by the fact that 80% of the cases go undiagnosed, which leaves that population vulnerable to a host of other life-threatening conditions. Find out why sleep apnea is a problem that shouldn’t be overlooked.

What is Sleep Apnea?

The term ‘apnea’ refers to frequent lapses in breathing while you sleep. One of your body’s natural protection mechanisms is for your brain to send a distress signal through your nervous system that causes you to awaken so that you can restart your breathing.

Because this typically happens several times for people suffering from sleep apnea, the benefits that should be reaped from a full night’s sleep are lost.

The Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

To get relief from sleep apnea, it’s important to be able to recognize the warning signs. In addition to loud snoring and gasping sounds, here are some of the common symptoms:

• Memory loss
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sore throat in the morning
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Daytime fatigue even after getting a full night of sleep

Men who suffer from obesity, have increased neck girth and are over the age of 50, are considered to be at a higher risk for developing sleep apnea, but the condition can strike even in childhood.

The Dangers of Ignoring Sleep Apnea

Failing to treat sleep apnea can have serious implications on your overall health. Researchers have found that untreated, the condition can contribute to heart disease, hypertension, obesity and decreased immune function.

Furthermore, people who suffer from sleep apnea are at a greater risk of having car accidents or work-related injuries due to the inability to focus or just falling asleep. Thankfully, with the help of a sleep dentist, the condition can be successfully treated.

Overcoming Sleep Apnea

The main methods of treating sleep apnea are a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine and oral appliance therapy. The former has been the standard form of treatment for years but doesn’t create a pleasant experience for many patients.

With an oral appliance, though, patients are able to enjoy a more comfortable application that is easy to transport as well.

If you suspect you have sleep apnea, the first step is to contact your physician so you can undergo a sleep study. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, your dentist in Jacksonville can then provide expert care so you can get the rest you’ve been missing.

About the Author

Dr. Sol G. Brotman graduated from the University of Maryland Dental School, and he later went on to receive his Certificate of Comprehensive General Dentistry from the University of Florida. Considered an authority in the field of dentistry, he has lectured at four different dental schools in five different disciplines. Dr. Brotman uses his vast knowledge and years of experience to help patients recover from sleep apnea at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.