Sleep apnea is one of those conditions many people have but may not be able to articulate. It’s more than just snoring. In fact, this common sleep disorder can have serious effects on your health, energy, and even your smile. If you’ve ever felt exhausted despite a full night’s sleep, keep reading. These five surprising facts about sleep apnea might open your eyes.
1. It’s More Common Than You Think
An estimated 25 million adults in the U.S. have sleep apnea, and many of them don’t know it. Because symptoms happen while you sleep, it’s often a partner or family member who first notices the warning signs, like loud snoring, choking, or gasping sounds at night.
2. It Can Harm More Than Your Sleep
Sleep apnea doesn’t just leave you feeling tired. It can increase your risk of serious health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and even diabetes. Lack of oxygen throughout the night puts extra strain on your body, and over time, it adds up.
3. Sleep Apnea Can Affect Anyone
There’s a stereotype that only older, overweight people get sleep apnea, but the truth is, it affects people of all shapes, sizes, and genders. Even kids can have sleep apnea due to enlarged tonsils or other airway issues.
4. Daytime Clues Can Tip You Off
Are you always tired? Do you have frequent headaches? What about trouble focusing? These symptoms may not seem related to sleep, but they often are. If you’re waking up groggy and dragging through the day, sleep apnea might be affecting more than just your nights.
5. Treatment Can Change Your Life
It’s not all doom and gloom. With the right diagnosis and treatment, sleep apnea is highly manageable. Many people who start treatment report better sleep, better moods, and even a decrease in teeth grinding and jaw tension.
Sleep apnea might be silent, but its effects are loud and clear. If you or someone you love snores, struggles with fatigue, or has other unexplained health issues, don’t ignore the signs. Talk to your dentist or healthcare provider about a sleep screening. It’s a small step that could change everything!
About the Practice
Dr. Jeff Rodgers is a board-certified expert in dental sleep medicine with over 20 years of experience helping patients breathe and sleep better. A Diplomate of both the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and the American Sleep and Breathing Academy, he is passionate about raising awareness of sleep apnea and providing effective treatment through oral appliance therapy. Call (770) 394-4310 to schedule a consultation at Sleep Better Georgia or visit our website to see a full menu of services.