How Dangerous Is Sleep Apnea?
If you have sleep apnea, you might avoid wearing your CPAP mask (continuous positive airway pressure) as often as you should. If so, you probably don’t follow other doctor’s orders about your treatment. The mask can be uncomfortable and it is kind of a pain to have to take it on all your trips. After all, sleep apnea can’t be that dangerous, right?
Wrong! Actually, sleep apnea is incredibly dangerous, and in some cases, it can be fatal.That is why it is so important that you follow your doctor’s orders if you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea.
The Silent Killer
Sleep apnea is a silent killer. It leads to heart issues, Type-2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and nonalcohol fatty liver disease. All of these issues can be fatal if they aren’t treated. Controlling your sleep apnea is the first step in controlling these issues. Once you get them under control, you will be much safer.
The Dangers of Surgery
You aren’t just at risk in your day-to-day life when you have sleep apnea. You are also at risk if you undergo surgery. You’ll be heavily sedated and on your back during surgery, and that can lead to serious breathing problems. That is why it is so important to let your doctor know that you have sleep apnea before you undergo surgery.
Less Serious Issues
There are also some less serious issues to consider when dealing with untreated sleep apnea.
- Daytime fatigue is one of the biggest complaints people have, and it shouldn’t be taken too lightly. It can lead to poor job performance, irritability, and sluggishness. In addition, you might be unsafe on the road if you are tired.
- You can also end up with a tired partner. Most people who have sleep apnea snore, and if your partner has to listen to that every night, he or she is probably fatigued. Chronic snoring can lead to relationship issues.
Sleep apnea should not be ignored. If you suspect that you may have sleep apnea, get it diagnosed right away. Then you can follow through on a treatment plan to ensure that you, and those who love you, have a happy and healthy life.
Mint Dental professionals deliver state-of-the-art dental care, using leading edge technology. With the support of an entire team, the doctors focus on treatments that meet individual needs and preventive care, with a goal of your healthy smile in mind. Contact us, today!
