Your Body and Untreated Sleep Apnea in Southlake

It is estimated as many as 70 million adults in the U.S. have a sleep disorder. Although they can take several forms, the most prevalent is obstructive sleep apnea. Roughly 22 million Americans live with the condition, but it is thought 80% of those with it have not been diagnosed. Often, it is thought the only complications from sleep apnea are loud chronic snoring and daytime fatigue. As a result, many people may not seek treatment for sleep apnea in Southlake despite having symptoms. Unfortunately, the consequences of leaving it untreated are worse than you might realize. It will negatively impact your body in several areas, some of which can be potentially deadly.

Effects of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea causes frequent pauses in breathing throughout the night. It is most often caused by an obstruction in the airway from the soft tissues in the back of the mouth or throat collapsing. This causes you to snore, wake frequently, and deal with daytime fatigue. Although you may not notice it right away, sleep apnea can also lead to a variety of health concerns throughout your body.

Cardiovascular and Circulatory Systems

When you stop breathing, it causes your body to suffer from a decrease in oxygen. This places a strain on your heart. With sleep apnea linked to obesity and high blood pressure, which also cause your heart to work harder, the combination of conditions can lead to cardiovascular issues. It is common to have an increased risk of an abnormal heartbeat, atrial fibrillation, heart attack, and stroke.

Nervous System

Although the most common cause of sleep apnea is from an obstruction, it can be the result of another issue as well. Central sleep apnea is caused by interruptions in the brain’s signals that enable you to breathe. Besides pauses in breathing, it can also lead to other neurological problems, like numbness and tingling in the extremities.

Digestive System

Sleep apnea is linked to causing a variety of complications relating to your digestive system, like fatty liver disease, liver scarring, and high levels of liver enzymes. It is also known to increase symptoms of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease. If this occurs, it can further interrupt your sleep quality.

Protecting Your Health

Your dentist in Southlake offers the solutions you need to breathe easier to protect your body from the complications of sleep apnea. Now, the preferred solution for mild to moderate sleep apnea is an oral appliance. The custom-fit device repositions your jaw forward to keep your airway open. This prevents pauses in breathing to help you get the rest you need.

If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, do not place your health at risk. Get the treatment you need with the help of your dentist.

Meet Dr. Preetha Thomas

Dr. Preetha Thomas provides holistic solutions to improve her patients’ quality of life. Besides general dentistry, she also offers treatment for sleep apnea using an oral appliance. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.