According to one estimate, around 30 million people in the U.S. have sleep apnea. Yes, this condition is very common! Despite that, it is still widely misunderstood. Indeed, myths about sleep apnea seem to be everywhere. Would you like to know the truth about it? In this blog post, you will discover the reality behind popular misconceptions.
Myth 1: Sleep Apnea Is Not a Big Deal
You may believe that sleep apnea is just about snoring or feeling tired. The reality is that sleep apnea can have a serious impact on your health. If left untreated, it can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It could even lead to premature death!
Myth 2: Only Obese People Get Sleep Apnea
While being overweight does raise your risk, sleep apnea can affect people of all shapes and sizes. Children, athletes, and individuals of all body types can develop this condition. Your airway structure, genetics, age, and other medical issues can all play a role in its development. Therefore, you need to be alert for signs of sleep apnea, even if you believe your risk is minimal.
Myth 3: You Need Surgery to Fix Sleep Apnea
You might think that surgery is the only answer for sleep apnea, but there are many treatment options. Most people start with less invasive approaches, such as lifestyle changes like losing weight or sleeping on your side. An oral appliance from a dentist is an excellent, non-invasive treatment solution that is more convenient than a CPAP machine, which is the most common prescription for sleep apnea. Surgery is usually considered only after other treatments have not worked or in special situations.
Myth 4: Sleep Apnea Will Go Away on Its Own
Some may hope that sleep apnea will disappear without any treatment. Unfortunately, this is not likely to happen. Sleep apnea often gets worse over time if you do not address it, and it can lead to more serious health problems. Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment is the best way to manage this condition.
Myth 5: Alcohol Is a Good Way to Manage Sleep Apnea Symptoms
You may have heard that a drink before bed helps you sleep better, but alcohol can actually make sleep apnea worse. Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat and airway, making it more likely that your breathing will stop during sleep. If you choose to drink alcohol, you should not do so within the last few hours before you go to bed.
Did this blog post teach you anything new about sleep apnea? It is always good to search for accurate information so you do not get taken in by common myths!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Jay Nelson is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and the American Board of Sleep & Breathing. Under his leadership, our team focuses on providing oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea. We can also assist with combined therapy that uses both a CPAP and oral appliance. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, we are ready to speak to you about your treatment options. Contact our office in Wesley Chapel, FL, at 813-733-4169.