The Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Are you constantly hearing about how bad your snoring is from your partner? Do you consistently wake up feeling unrested or with a headache? If so, then you may be suffering from undiagnosed/untreated obstructive sleep apnea. Untreated sleep apnea can have a significant and far-reaching impact on both physical and mental health, as well as overall quality of life. Seeking effective obstructive sleep apnea treatment in Acton, Massachusetts, area is the first step toward better sleep. The team at Acton Dental Associates offers sleep appliance therapy, an appliance the size of a mouthguard that keeps your airway open as you sleep. This is just one way you can receive sleep apnea treatment.

If you have been putting off treatment, here are some of the top consequences:

1. Cardiovascular Issues: Sleep apnea is closely linked to hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, and stroke. Repeated interruptions in breathing cause stress on the cardiovascular system, leading to irregular heartbeats, increased blood pressure, and damage to the arteries over time.
2. Daytime Fatigue and Impaired Cognitive Function: One of the hallmark symptoms of sleep apnea is excessive daytime sleepiness due to disrupted sleep patterns. This can impair cognitive function, memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities, affecting performance at work or school.
3. Increased Risk of Accidents: Individuals with untreated sleep apnea are at a higher risk of motor vehicle accidents due to impaired alertness and slower reaction times. Daytime fatigue and drowsiness can also lead to accidents in the workplace or during other activities that require focus and attention.
4. Metabolic Disorders: Sleep apnea is associated with insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The hormonal imbalances caused by poor sleep can disrupt the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to metabolic dysfunction.
5. Weight Gain and Obesity: There is a bidirectional relationship between sleep apnea and obesity, with each condition exacerbating the other. Excess weight, particularly around the neck, can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep, worsening the severity of sleep apnea. Conversely, sleep deprivation disrupts the balance of hormones that regulate appetite, leading to increased cravings for high-calorie foods and weight gain.
6. Mood Disorders: Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to mood disturbances such as irritability, depression, and anxiety. The hormonal and neurotransmitter imbalances caused by disrupted sleep can exacerbate underlying mental health conditions and decrease overall resilience to stress.
7. Decreased Quality of Life: The cumulative effects of untreated sleep apnea, including daytime fatigue, cognitive impairment, mood disturbances, and physical health problems, can significantly diminish overall quality of life. Relationships, social interactions, and enjoyment of daily activities may be compromised due to the impact of sleep apnea on physical and mental well-being.

If you are looking for sleep apnea treatment in the form of an oral appliance, please reach out to the team at Acton Dental Associates in Acton, MA, by calling (978) 881-5826.