What Happens if I Ignore Sleep Apnea in Melbourne?

Has your partner been complaining about your snoring? Have you been extra tired lately? You might have started to suspect that you have sleep apnea in Melbourne. However, you may not want to seek out diagnosis and treatment. You can just push through the tiredness, right? Well, no. Ignoring sleep apnea can have devastating and far-reaching consequences for your health. Let’s discuss what might happen if this disorder is allowed to remain uncontrolled.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and sleep apnea can be a major contributor to heart disease. Sleep apnea disrupts the flow of oxygen throughout your body, which heightens stress levels. It also makes it difficult for your brain to control how the blood flows through vital organs, including your brain and heart.

Just how strong is the correlation between sleep apnea and heart disease? The National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research estimated that sleep apnea is likely the culprit behind 38,000 cardiovascular deaths each year. They also found that obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of heart failure by 140 percent.

Weight Gain

If you do not get enough sleep, the hormones that control appetite will no longer function properly. You may have increased levels of the hormone that makes you feel hungry, and less of the hormone that makes you feel full. You may thus be more inclined to consume calories that your body does not really need. Also, since sleep apnea can make you tired, you may be less active and therefore burn fewer calories throughout the day.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Sleep apnea can do more than put your own well-being at risk; it can also put others in danger. Sleep deprivation can slow down reflex times and may even cause you to doze off while you are at the wheel. A 2015 study published by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that individuals with sleep apnea are 2.5 times more likely to be the driver in a motor vehicle accident compared to the general population.

Daily Activities

Without enough high-quality rest, the parts of your brain that control emotion may not work as well as they should. You may experience irritability, depression, and anxiety. Such issues can affect your relationships with others and downgrade your overall quality of life. Sexual dysfunction is also common among sleep apnea sufferers, which can have a negative effect on your relationship with your intimate partner.

The above-listed consequences of sleep apnea are really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what could happen if you ignore this serious disorder. If you suspect you have it, it is in your best interests to seek diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is a dentist and dental sleep medicine expert who has helped countless individuals in Melbourne and the surrounding communities to find relief from sleep apnea. The team in his office would happy to help you arrange for a sleep test, followed by sleep apnea therapy. Contact us at 321-313-5350 to learn more.