Chronic fatigue, loud snoring, irritability, forgetfulness, and even drowsy driving are all common symptoms of sleep apnea. Waking up multiple times each night and gasping for air are also regular occurrences that can make daily living increasingly difficult. But have you considered how this nightly problem might be affecting your heart? Read on to discover the link between sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease.
How Your Sleep Affects Your Heart
According to the American Heart Association, nearly 30 million people have sleep apnea, but up to 70 million people in the U.S. are living with some type of sleep disorder (i.e., narcolepsy, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, etc.).
Most people wake up gasping for air or choking, as their body and brain try to “recalibrate” and return to a normal breathing and sleeping pattern. Unfortunately, this same cycle can occur multiple times each night, making it hard for individuals to obtain enough sleep.
If this happens to you, you can expect to experience a fight-or-flight response, and your oxygen levels will be much lower than normal. Overall, it will put additional stress on your heart, cause inflammation, and lead to changes in your blood vessels.
This recurrence is why many with sleep apnea suffer from high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, and even heart failure.
What Can You Do to Avoid Heart Disease?
One way to lower your risk is to ask a local expert about sleep apnea treatment. A sleep study will be required to receive a formal diagnosis, but once you learn whether you have it, you can inquire about the various treatment options that are available, one of which includes oral appliance therapy (OAT).
Although CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy is common among patients, many find it to be challenging because of the bulky machinery and loud noise. Also, you’re required to wear either a nasal or facial mask while you sleep.
With OAT, you can wear a customized oral appliance that is designed to keep your airway open and prevent any soft oral tissues from collapsing while you sleep. Over time, you will begin to notice an improvement in your symptoms, allowing you to breathe freely and rest more soundly.
Learning you have sleep apnea might initially cause you to feel defeated. However, if you seek professional help from a trusted expert, you can begin to address your symptoms and notice a dramatic improvement in your sleep quality and overall health, especially as it pertains to your heart.
About the Author
Dr. Brian J. Titus is an experienced dentist with over two decades of experience. Equipped to provide sleep apnea treatment after years of advanced training, he and the team at Chardon Smile Center will work to help you breathe better and get the much-needed rest you deserve. If you want to reduce your risk of more serious health problems in the future, contact us at (440) 286-2474 to meet with Dr. Titus to discuss your candidacy for sleep apnea treatment.