Although sleep apnea in Las Vegas is fairly common, most of those who are affected by it are undiagnosed. For this reason, countless people out there aren’t getting the treatment they need. To top it all off, misconceptions surrounding this medical condition cause people to mistakenly think that they’re not a potential patient.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea can be a serious sleep disorder. When someone has it, their breathing repeatedly stops and starts while they’re sleeping. Its symptoms include loud snoring, restless sleep, and daytime sleepiness.
Debunking the Most Common Myths About Sleep Apnea
MYTH #1: “If you’re not obese or overweight, you won’t have sleep apnea.”
Although an increase in body weight may increase the risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), people who are of regular or below-average weight can also suffer from this condition. In other words, a person’s weight isn’t the biggest contributing factor.
However, it’s important to note that most of those who are diagnosed with sleep apnea are middle-aged patients. As a person ages, their natural loss in muscle tone leads to the obstruction of their airway.
MYTH #2: “Women don’t get sleep apnea.”
Did you know that 10% to 25% of the adult population have clinically significant sleep apnea? Although most of those who are diagnosed are men, this condition affects women as well. However, compared to men, most women go undiagnosed at higher rates.
MYTH #3: “Everyone who snores has sleep apnea.”
While a strong link between sleep apnea and snoring has been established, this doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone who snores has sleep apnea. The best way to determine if your snoring is a sign of this sleep disorder is to see a dental professional.
MYTH #4: “Everyone who has sleep apnea snores.”
Did you know that up to 20% of those who were diagnosed with sleep apnea don’t snore? However, they can exhibit other symptoms including choking, labored breathing, gasping for air at night, waking up with a headache, a raspy throat, or a dry mouth. If somebody sees you stop breathing while you’re sleeping, take this as a sign that you have sleep apnea.
MYTH #5: “Sleeping for a long time makes you feel better.”
If you have sleep apnea, you’ll still wake up feeling surprisingly tired after sleeping for a long time. In other words, oversleeping won’t leave you feeling refreshed either.
Adults should clock up between seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Getting too much sleep can increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease and diabetes.
MYTH #6: “Kids don’t get sleep apnea.”
Anyone, regardless of their age, can have sleep apnea. About 10% to 20% of children who snore can possibly have sleep apnea. According to research, this medical condition affects up to 3% of these kids.
MYTH #7: “Sleep apnea isn’t a big deal.”
False! If you have sleep apnea, you should see a doctor right away. If left untreated, this condition can increase your risk of gaining unhealthy weight, having a heart attack, or a stroke.
Do You Have Sleep Apnea in Las Vegas?
If you were diagnosed with sleep apnea, the dental care team at Dee is for Dentist is here to provide advanced custom-fitted oral sleep appliances that can help you sleep better. Call our office today to schedule your consultation.
