Although there are many differences between you and your friends, family, and neighbors, one concept that holds true for most people is the desire to live a long, healthy, happy life. Unfortunately, however, if you suffer from untreated sleep apnea, you could be putting your health and longevity at risk. Here’s a closer look at how this condition could increase your risk of developing life-threatening conditions that could lower your life expectancy.
Does Sleep Apnea Reduce Your Life Expectancy?
The good news is that no, sleep apnea in and of itself should not directly lower your life expectancy. However, it can increase your likelihood of developing other conditions that can, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and brain damage. In fact, patients with untreated severe sleep apnea could have their life shortened by up to four times over those who do not!
How Can I Protect Myself from the Dangers of Sleep Apnea?
The good news is that if you do suffer from sleep apnea, there are treatment options available to help you get the rest you deserve and protect your health from the damaging side effects of this condition. While many patients try and dislike traditional methods like CPAP machines, your sleep dentist may have a better solution: oral appliance therapy.
These devices are customized to fit your individual mouth and work by positioning your jaw in such a way that the airway is propped open manually, allowing you to breathe properly while you sleep. This eliminates the need for electronics, masks, tubing, and uncomfortable forced air. In fact, most patients find oral appliances far more comfortable and are therefore more compliant with wearing them, making them the more effective choice.
Treating sleep apnea won’t just get you immediate relief, either. It has been shown to reduce the risk of premature death by three times and can reduce your risk of stroke by half and heart attack by five times over those who do not treat their sleep apnea.
Remember, while sleep apnea alone cannot lower your life expectancy, it can contribute to many conditions that can, thereby putting you at dangerous risks for a variety of fatal illnesses. To protect yourself and finally get the rest you deserve, speak to your sleep dentist about sleep apnea treatment today.
About Dr. Hooks
Dr. Gwen Hooks earned her undergraduate degree at Liberty University and her dental degree at Virginia Commonwealth University Dental School. She is a proud, active member of the American Dental Association and the Virginia Dental Association. To schedule an appointment for sleep apnea treatment at Hooks Family Dentistry, visit our website or call 434-324-8241.