Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that causes breathing difficulties during sleep. Many people with sleep apnea don’t realize they have it. If a partner or family member complains of excessive snoring it could indicate that there is something wrong. Watch out for these hidden dangers of sleep apnea.
Hidden Dangers of Sleep Apnea
Your dentist in Beverly Hills can often link important connections between sleep and your oral health. If you don’t treat sleep apnea, there are many possible consequences to your teeth, gums, and beyond. Sleep apnea can even lead to brain damage in some untreated patients. Familiarize yourself with these hidden dangers of sleep apnea so you can spot the signs and get help ASAP.
Sleep Apnea Causes & Symptoms
Sleep apnea can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics and overall lifestyle choices. While the cause cannot always be identified, a clear treatment plan can still be prescribed.
Sleep apnea can be fatal if it isn’t treated quickly. You or your partner may be able to identify the most common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea when you’re sleeping. These are some symptoms:
- Trouble falling asleep or insomnia
- Modifications in mood
- Constant fatigue
- You wake up gasping for air, or choking.
- Frequent headaches in the morning
- Forgetfulness
- A coma-like sleep
Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of sleep apnea. You are at risk if you have a history of sleep disorder, sudden weight gain, or if you smoke and drink alcohol. If you suffer from sleep apnea, you may also experience mood and happiness issues. This could make it necessary to seek mental healthcare alongside physical healthcare.
Sleep Apnea: Its Mental Effects
It is possible for the most common symptoms of sleep apnea to not be apparent immediately. Sometimes, it might take some time before you realize that something is wrong. Research has shown a stronger connection between sleep apnea and anxiety than previously thought. This helps speed up the diagnosis process. Studies have also shown an increase in cognitive impairment, which also support the claim that these two things are strongly linked.
Sleep Apnea and Memory Loss
Sleep apnea may cause memory loss or even lead to forgetting important life events. It is also known to cause fatigue and memory loss. Sometimes patients may have difficulty recalling details of life events. Patients may mistakenly think that long-term memories are short-term memories, and they forget how much time has passed since the event.
Best Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Some studies have shown that sleep apnea can sometimes be reversed through a series of therapy and medication. Although there is no cure, it is possible to make a full recovery and lead a healthy life while developing better sleeping habits moving forward. There are many ways to improve the functionality and health of your brain independently of your sleep apnea as well.
A CPAP machine is the best and most widely used treatment for OSA or obstructive sleep apnea. It can be used like a mask while you sleep, working to keep your airways open and prevent you from snoring. Studies have shown that people who use CPAP for a year are able to reduce their overall sleep apnea symptoms and report better overall rest at night.
Get the Help You Need at Your Beverly Hills Dentists Today!
Sleep apnea can be associated with memory loss, mental health problems, snoring, heart disease, and other conditions. If this condition is not treated promptly, it can lead to even more serious health problems for your entire body – even death. Your dentist can help you diagnose and treat sleep apnea through an independent plan of care. To find out more about whether or not you may be struggling with sleep apnea in Beverly Hills, get in touch with us to build your own personal treatment plan today.