What Happens if I Don’t Treat My Sleep Apnea?

sleep apnea Rockville, MD

A diagnosis of sleep apnea can be frightening or frustrating to patients, many of whom may need to make lifestyle changes in diet, exercise and environment to reverse the sleep disorder. In the face of such changes, many people may find it tempting to simply do nothing. However, left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to much worse health conditions and a diminished quality of life for those who suffer from it.

Sleep apnea health concerns

One of the most important things that a patient diagnosed with sleep apnea can do is to take action towards better health. Without positive lifestyle changes, patients are at greater risk for severe illness.

Higher risk of cardiovascular diseases

The pulmonary system is closely linked to the respiratory system; therefore, sleep apnea can have a prominent effect on a patient’s heart. Patients with the disorder can experience high blood pressure, blood clots and even a higher risk of stroke than people without disordered sleeping. A healthy diet rich in fresh foods and vitamins can help with weight loss and improve heart health.

Weight gain

Medical researchers have discovered a connection between lack of sleep and weight gain, especially as people age. When the body does not receive adequate rest, it tends to retain weight. Patients suffering from sleep apnea are at higher risk for developing symptoms of chronic fatigue, which can lead to weight gain. Tired people are also often less likely to exercise, which can contribute to being overweight, too.

Diminished mental health

Since patients with sleep apnea cannot receive proper rest, they are more likely to exhibit signs of exhaustion. This can manifest in physical fatigue but also in emotional and mental symptoms. Mood swings, depression and irritability have all been connected with sleep apnea. Through consistent treatment and lifestyle changes, exhaustion can be reversed and these symptoms can subside.

Greater likelihood of dangerous situations

Unfortunately, if exhaustion is left untreated, it can lead to hazardous situations for patients. Reduced motor function is one common symptom of fatigue, so people with sleep apnea may operate dangerous machinery incorrectly at work or fall asleep while driving on the highway. Additionally, a lack of sleep has been linked with decreased morale, so people with sleep apnea may be more likely to function less effectively in the workplace.

Threat of impotence

All of the major systems and organs of the body depend on getting adequate time to rest, repair and produce necessary hormones. Normally, this can be achieved through healthy diet, moderate exercise and a substantial sleeping schedule. Sleep apnea disrupts resting time, which can inhibit testosterone production in men who suffer from the disorder. In addition, people suffering from the disorder do not get the appropriate amount of oxygen, which can cause impotence.

Conclusion

Treating sleep apnea is the first step in preventing the further development of illness and other health and lifestyle issues in patients. Surgery is an option for treatment, but there are also many effective nonsurgical options available to patients.

Request an appointment here: https://www.rockvillefamilydental.com or call Rockville Family Dental at (301) 575-0941 for an appointment in our Rockville office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Adjusting To New Dentures: The Best Methods For Your New Smile

If you have recently replaced a mouthful of teeth, you are probably adjusting to new dentures. Although dentures greatly improve your smile, this does not mean you immediately become used to wearing them. The good news is there are methods you can use to help adjust, and in about a month, your dentures should start…

How Often Does A Child's Teeth Need A Cleaning From A Family Dentist?

A common mistake that parents make is assuming that regular family dentist visits for their child are not necessary because baby teeth will fall out, anyway. However, the health of the child’s baby (primary) teeth plays an important role in the proper development of their permanent teeth. This review highlights the importance of regular family…

Abscessed Tooth Treatment From An Emergency Dentist

An abscessed tooth most likely will not go away on its own. If the symptoms become severe or exist for an extended period of time, then you may need to visit an emergency dentist to promptly treat the dental abscess. There are different treatment options an emergency dentist may recommend to treat an abscessed tooth. An…

Gum Disease: How To Reverse It And Get Healthy Gums Again

Anyone who has ever had gum disease knows that it can have serious consequences. If you have the signs and symptoms of this condition, you should act now and start treating it. In the early stages, it is possible to cure it and restore the full health of your gums. Waiting too long could have…

Recent Posts

Adjusting To New Dentures: The Best Methods For Your New Smile

Adjusting To New Dentures: The Best Methods For Your New Smile

If you have recently replaced a mouthful of teeth, you are probably adjusting to new dentures. Although dentures greatly improve your smile, this does not mean you immediately become used to wearing them. The good news is there are methods you can use to help adjust, and in about a month, your dentures should start…

How Often Does A Child&#    ;s Teeth Need A Cleaning From A Family Dentist?

How Often Does A Child's Teeth Need A Cleaning From A Family Dentist?

A common mistake that parents make is assuming that regular family dentist visits for their child are not necessary because baby teeth will fall out, anyway. However, the health of the child’s baby (primary) teeth plays an important role in the proper development of their permanent teeth. This review highlights the importance of regular family…