Sleep apnea is one of the most prevalent sleep disorders in Canada.
While some people conflate sleep apnea with simple snoring, it’s much more complicated than this.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that disrupts your breathing during sleep.
If you have sleep apnea, your breathing will continually stop and start during the night. Snoring could be associated with the condition, but not all those who snore necessarily have sleep apnea, and not all those who have sleep apnea snore.
That’s why it’s essential to look for other signs and symptoms of this sleep disorder. Breathing difficulties are dangerous in and of themselves, but they could lead to other health problems as well. Let’s take a look at some of the health hazards of this condition.
Sleep Apnea Can Lead to Cardiovascular Problems
The most significant health hazard of untreated sleep apnea is heart disease – the number one cause of death in the world.
Studies have shown that obstructive sleep apnea significantly increases the risks of developing cardiovascular disease, regardless of other risk factors such as smoking or alcohol use.
Those with the condition have higher chances of developing hypertension (high blood pressure), coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, and they’re at a greater risk of stroke.
In case you suspect you might have sleep apnea, our Kanata and Kemptville clinics are available to provide a diagnosis and help you treat it to avoid potential cardiovascular problems caused by sleep apnea.
You’re at a Higher Risk of Obesity and Diabetes
Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia are closely tied with both obesity and diabetes. Not only are obesity and diabetes potential causes of sleep apnea, but it works the other way around.
Sleep apnea has proven to impair insulin resistance and even glucose tolerance – both precursors for developing type 2 diabetes.
Obesity is well-known to be a risk factor for diabetes, and studies suggest that sleep apnea could lead to obesity. Regular, quality sleep is essential for managing hunger hormones.
Disrupted sleep tends to make you feel more hungry throughout the day, which will increase your intake of food and make you more likely to develop obesity.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Can Cause Gastrointestinal Problems
Those who suffer from sleep apnea often report gastrointestinal problems such as gastric reflux as well.
While more research needs to be done to provide conclusive evidence of the connection between these two problems, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor if you experience either of these conditions.
Your Mental Health May Suffer Due to Sleep Apnea
Sleep and mental health are heavily correlated.
Lack of sleep caused by sleep apnea could lead to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, even post-traumatic stress disorder.
It’s also suggested that those with schizophrenia and psychosis are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea.
Taking good care of your mental health is of the utmost importance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when we’re all spending much more time locked at home.
If you’ve noticed any mental health issues, talk with your doctor to see whether they could be caused by sleep apnea.
Treating Sleep Apnea in Kanata & Kemptville
No sleep disorder should be ignored. Sleep apnea is hazardous in and of itself, causing further health problems down the line.
If you suspect you might be suffering from sleep apnea, Yazdani family dentistry clinics in Kemptville and Kanata can help.
Contact us, and we’ll help you get to the bottom of your sleep issues.
