According to Columbia University's Department of Neurology, as many as 90 percent of people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) don't know they have it. Ninety percent is a staggering statistic, and when it comes to something that is often life-threatening like OSA, it is even more troubling. Aside from being potentially life-threatening, some of the other life-altering conditions that can arise from suffering from untreated sleep apnea include:
- Depression
- Memory Loss
- Hypertension
- Heart Attack
- Stroke
- Diabetes
Are You One of Them?
Medical consultations and sleep studies are the best ways to determine if you are one of the 90 percent. Easily observable behaviors or ailments such as snoring, fatigue, migraines, and difficulty concentrating can often act as red flags for Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
If you suffer from any of the conditions listed above or experience symptoms like snoring or fatigue, you should schedule a consultation. This consultation can help you understand what the cause of your sleep problems might be. Of course, no one wants to learn that they have sleep apnea or any other condition that can be detrimental to their health, but not knowing is so much worse.
How Are You Going to Know?
- Listen: If your significant other, spouse, or partner has mentioned that you snore, you should take it seriously because it could be a serious issue.
- Reflect: If you notice that you don't wake up feeling rested, you should consider why this is happening. Daytime fatigue can lead to numerous other complications and have a significant impact on your life.
- Pay Attention: If you frequently wake up during the night, your sleep is likely being interrupted. Some sleep apnea sufferers wake up in the middle of the night choking or gasping for air before seeking treatment.
- Symptoms: Other adjacent symptoms and tell-tale signs may also point to sleep apnea. These symptoms include things like frequent morning headaches and chronic sore throat or dry mouth.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Lynnwood, WA
Dr. Buck offers patients customized dental appliances that work to keep airways open. These appliances not only improve sleep but also provide the body with much-needed oxygen. Treatment is enhanced through expert recommendations to adopt lifestyle changes to help ensure lasting relief.
Of course, every situation is different and what is best for some isn't always best for others. Dr. Buck will evaluate your condition and medical needs in greater detail during your consultation. To schedule your sleep apnea treatment consultation, please contact Dr. Buck today by calling (425) 409-2180 or visit our contact page.