Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious disorder characterized by an interruption in breathing during sleep due to a blockage in the airway. If you live with this condition, it’s essential to seek care from your local dentist. Not only does it make for a poor night’s rest, but it also carries a number of serious health risks with it. 

There are many issues associated with sleep apnea:

• High Blood Pressure: An estimated 30-50% of patients with high blood pressure also have sleep apnea. High blood pressure is linked to an array of issues, such as increased stroke and heart attack risk. The good news is that treating sleep apnea can help lower blood pressure. A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask is one means of keeping the airway open and unimpeded during sleep.
• Heart Problems: Obstructive sleep apnea is thought to increase the risk of recurrent heart attacks, while also contributing to cardiac issues like abnormal heartbeats. This may be because of the lack of oxygen the body experiences when you stop breathing at night.
• Asthma: Sleep apnea is more common among people with asthma. Unfortunately, data has shown that it can also exacerbate the symptoms of the respiratory condition. Sleep apnea is thought to increase the proportion of inflammatory chemicals in the bloodstream, which could worsen inflammation of the lungs linked to asthma.
• Fatigue: Many people who live with sleep apnea find themselves waking suddenly in the night due to a lack of air. Not only is this scary, but it also compromises a quality night’s rest. The resulting fatigue can take a toll on your everyday health and happiness. It also makes you more susceptible to accidents related to fatigue, such as falling asleep while driving.

Think you might suffer from sleep apnea? The first step toward a cure is getting a professional diagnosis. If you’re in Rhinelander, WI, Timber Drive Dental can help. This team of dentists specializes in sleep apnea treatment and offers an array of custom devices that can address the issue. Find out more about their services on their website. To request an appointment, call (715) 365-1800.