Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring or restless nights—it’s a serious sleep disorder that can impact your overall health and quality of life. While many people have heard of it, there are some surprising facts about sleep apnea that you may not know. Understanding these can help highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
1. Sleep Apnea Often Goes Undiagnosed
One of the most surprising aspects of sleep apnea is how many people have it without even knowing. It’s estimated that millions of Americans suffer from sleep apnea, but a large percentage remain undiagnosed. Because symptoms like pauses in breathing or gasping for air happen while you’re asleep, it’s not uncommon for bed partners—not the patients themselves—to first notice signs of the condition.
2. It’s Not Just About Snoring
While snoring is a common symptom, not everyone with sleep apnea snores, and not all snorers have sleep apnea. Other signs include daytime fatigue, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, and even irritability. Sometimes, the symptoms are so subtle that people mistakenly attribute them to stress, aging, or poor sleep habits.
3. Sleep Apnea Affects All Ages
Although it’s often associated with middle-aged adults, sleep apnea can affect people of all ages, including children. In kids, enlarged tonsils or adenoids are common causes, and the condition may lead to behavioral problems, poor school performance, or growth delays if left untreated.
4. It Increases Risk for Serious Health Issues
Perhaps the most important fact about sleep apnea is its link to other health conditions. Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even stroke. It can also contribute to weight gain, as poor sleep disrupts hormones that regulate appetite. This makes treating sleep apnea essential not just for better rest but also for overall wellness.
5. Lifestyle Plays a Big Role
Weight is a significant factor in sleep apnea, as extra tissue around the airway can obstruct breathing during sleep. However, it’s not the only cause. Even people at a healthy weight can develop the condition due to genetic factors, structural differences in the airway, or nasal issues. Lifestyle adjustments such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol before bedtime, and sleeping on your side can sometimes lessen symptoms, but many patients require medical treatment.
6. Treatment Options Go Beyond CPAP Machines
When people think of sleep apnea treatment, they often picture the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. While CPAP remains the gold standard, there are other options available. Oral appliances designed by dentists, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery can also be effective. Newer devices are also becoming smaller and more comfortable, making treatment easier than ever before.
Sleep apnea is more common and more serious than most people realize. It’s not limited to older adults or chronic snorers, and its health risks reach far beyond disrupted sleep. The good news? With proper diagnosis and treatment, patients can regain restful sleep, reduce health risks, and improve their quality of life. If you suspect sleep apnea, don’t wait—talk to a healthcare provider about testing and treatment options.
About the Author
Dr. David R. Lloyd is the third generation in his family to serve the Daytona Beach community where he lives. He is a graduate of the renowned Emory University School of Dentistry and followed his education with an officer’s commission in the U.S. Navy and was awarded a position in the General Practice Residency program at Naval Hospital-Oakland. Dr. Lloyd stays current in his field through memberships in the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association. He is also an American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine-qualified dentist. With this kind of expertise, you can trust Dr. Lloyd to treat your sleep apnea so you can get the rest you need. Schedule an appointment online or call (386) 253-0115.