We know that loud snoring can lead to bad jokes and middle of the night elbow jabs. These are two things we don’t want to experience. But it is important to know that snoring is no laughing matter. Loud, disruptive snoring can place a strain on relationships. However, it may also signal obstructive sleep apnea, which can lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, type 2 diabetes and even cause car accidents. Whether you snore or have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, it is important to understand the history behind this condition and what treatment is available.
What is the history of sleep apnea?
Do you know how many people in the U.S. suffer from sleep apnea? About 22 million adults. To make matters worse, about 80% of the cases of moderate or severe obstructive sleep apnea are undiagnosed. That means the majority of the people with sleep apnea don’t even know they have this condition. And when they are unaware, it can continue to add to the development of other health conditions.
It is important to receive the best treatment possible. Treating sleep apnea is important to find relief and live a healthier, happier life. After all, the amount and type of sleep you have will set the tone for your entire day–even your whole week.
Oral appliance therapy can help
According to the American Sleep Disorder Association, oral appliance therapy can help. The American Sleep Disorder Association endorsed oral appliance therapy as the third currently acceptable treatment modality for sleep apnea in 1995. To this day, the use of oral appliance therapy for treatment of sleep apnea continues to rise in importance.
The largest numbers of people who suffer from sleep apnea are in the mild to moderate categories. For those who suffer from mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy might be an ideal treatment option.
Contact Dr. Sara at AZ Sleep & TMJ Solutions to learn more about sleep apnea and find out how we can help you get a better night’s sleep every time.