It’s Not Just an Annoyance: 4 Major Health Risks of Snoring

Yes, snoring is annoying. It can make your sleeping partner complain — or perhaps even earn you a spot on the couch. But did you know that snoring in Boca Raton is also a big indicator that you’re at risk for serious health problems? Let’s talk about how snoring is connected to a number of systemic issues and what you can do to protect yourself.

Snoring: A Telltale Sign of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Snoring is a noise that is caused by vibrations that are the result of air passing by the structures in your mouth and throat. Sometimes, snoring is a temporary issue that happens because allergies narrow the air passage or certain substances (like alcohol) cause the throat muscles to overrelax.  When loud snoring becomes a long-term problem, however, it is a major indicator of obstructive sleep apnea in Boca Raton.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder that causes interruptions in breathing at night, making it difficult if not impossible for its victims to enjoy truly rejuvenating rest. The sleep deprivation that results from sleep apnea can destroy your overall health. It may lead to any of the following problems:

Heart Issues and Stroke

Long-term, intense snoring has been connected to a higher risk of carotid arteriosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries in the neck), which can lead to stroke. Sleep deprivation has even been linked to high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and arrythmia.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is common among people with sleep apnea. This correlation may be due to the abnormal way the throat muscles operate during sleep, which can cause the stomach’s contents to get sucked back into the esophagus.

Injury

The vast majority of adults need 7 – 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to function at their best. The less high-quality sleep you get, the more likely you are to suffer from excessive daytime drowsiness and trouble concentrating. Therefore, everyday tasks like driving and cooking become much more dangerous.

Mental Health Problems

Sleep deprivation can make anyone a little cranky, but long-term sleep problems can lead to more serious mood problems, including anxiety and depression.

What You Can Do About Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Sometimes, a few small lifestyle changes can correct snoring and stop sleep apnea. For example, losing some weight, not drinking alcohol right before bed, and not sleeping on your back may all help.

You may also benefit from a visit to a dental sleep medicine expert. Something as simple as a custom oral appliance can reposition your oral structures at night, allowing for freer airflow and uninterrupted shuteye. It could also end your snoring, something that your sleeping partner will undoubtedly be grateful for!

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is a dentist who focuses on helping patients with sleep disorders reclaim high-quality sleep through the use of custom oral appliances. He is proud to serve patients in Boca Raton and the surrounding communities. If you would like to speak to Dr. Mogell about your sleep problems, contact our Boca Raton office at 561-353-5252.