Who is at Risk for Sleep Apnea? Do you snore frequently? Do you often feel exhausted during the day? If so, you may be at risk for sleep apnea.Most people think that sleep apnea is a problem that only affects overweight middle-aged men. However, this severe sleep disorder can affect anyone at any age. Factors Increasing the Risk of Sleep ApneaWhile sleep apnea is not always easy to diagnose, certain factors can increase your risk of developing the disorder. OverweightSleep apnea is when a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep. This interruption can cause loud snoring and daytime fatigue. Sleep apnea is more common in people who are overweight or obese. This is because excess weight can lead to the collapse of the airway. When the airway is blocked, it can cause interrupted breathing. Large Neck CircumferenceLarge neck circumference has been linked to an increased risk of sleep apnea. The extra tissue can block the airway, making breathing difficult. Sleep apnea is a severe condition that can lead to health problems, including high blood pressure and heart disease. SmokingSmoking can increase the risk of sleep apnea, as it can cause the airway to become blocked. This is because when you smoke, the chemicals in the smoke can irritate the airway and make it swell. This can make it difficult for air to pass through and can eventually lead to sleep apnea. Diabetes or High Blood PressureSleep apnea, a possibly deadly condition in which a person's breathing stops and repeatedly starts throughout the night, affects approximately one in four diabetics. Diabetes and sleep apnea are linked conditions, so you should see your doctor if you have high blood sugar and feel exhausted throughout the day, snore loudly, or wake up choking on air. High blood pressure is also a risk factor for sleep apnea. People with sleep apnea are twice as likely to have high blood pressure. If you have sleep apnea, you may be at increased risk for heart attacks, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. GeneticsSeveral genetic factors can increase the risk of sleep apnea. These include having a family history of the condition, being of certain ethnicities, and having certain medical conditions. Sleep apnea is more common in people with a family history. If your parents or siblings have sleep apnea, you are more likely to have it. Certain ethnicities are also at increased risk for sleep apnea. This includes people of African, Hispanic, and Asian descent. Symptoms of Sleep ApneaThere are a variety of symptoms that can indicate sleep apnea. Some of the more common ones include:
If you think you may have sleep apnea, you must see a doctor for an evaluation. Sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, so it's essential to get treatment if you have it. Are You at Risk?If you snore loudly or feel tired during the day, you may be at risk for sleep apnea. If you think you may have sleep apnea, talk to Our surgeons about getting a sleep study. Once diagnosed, treatments available can help relieve symptoms and get you on the path to a good night’s rest. Call Surf City Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at 657-384-2787 to schedule an appointment. |
