sleep apnea facts and myths

As you may already know, sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that is characterized by repeated lapses in breathing. If left untreated, it can lead to a number of side effects, ranging from minor to severe, which include the likes of daytime fatigue, sleep deprivation, higher blood pressure and a greater risk of developing diabetes or heart disease. While these aforementioned potential health impacts are a fact, you might be surprised to learn that despite sleep apnea being a fairly common condition (it's estimated that more than 18 million U.S. residents experience it), there is still a lot of misinformation out there about this sleep disorder.

On that note, here’s a handy guide of facts and myths about sleep apnea. First up - the myths:

Sleep Apnea Myths

  • Sleep apnea is basically just snoring: While it's true that snoring is a potential warning sign of sleep apnea, the two are hardly the same thing. Snoring doesn't consist of a lapse in breathing. In fact, those with sleep apnea often snore after breathing resumes. This snoring may occur often, as those with sleep apnea can experience up to 400 stops in breathing each night.
  • Sleep apnea isn't dangerous: Just because it's worth mentioning again, failure to treat sleep apnea can have detrimental - and potentially deadly - effects.
  • Only old people get sleep apnea: It's true that sleep apnea is more common in people ages 40 and up, but this is a sleep disorder that can affect anyone. In fact, it's estimated that one of every 10 children experiences sleep apnea.
  • Alcohol helps with sleep apnea: This is completely false. Alcohol can help relax muscles in the throat, actually making sleep apnea worse.
  • Sleep apnea is difficult to treat: There are a bevy of treatments to help effectively manage sleep apnea at little to no inconvenience. Surgery may also be an option.

Sleep Apnea Facts

  • Lifestyle adjustments can resolve sleep apnea: For instance, obese or overweight people are more likely to experience sleep apnea because weight gained in the neck can also impact the size of the air passageway. Losing weight can potentially resolve this.
  • The CPAP isn't the only treatment: While the CPAP is the most popular (and most effective) way to treat sleep apnea, for some a mouth guard or retainer is enough to keep the jaw in a forward position and the airway open. There are various other treatments as well.
  • Laying on a side can help minimize symptoms: This is true, as it helps to open the throat. Quitting smoking and eliminating (or reducing) the consumption of alcohol can also help to reduce symptoms.
  • Many people experience sleep apnea, but are unaware: As bothersome as this may be, it's true, which is why it's important to be cognoscente of the signs and symptoms associated with it.

For more information on sleep apnea facts and myths, contact Kanehl Dental today.