Sleep Apnea Is on the Rise — Are You at Risk?

In recent times, there has been an increase in obstructive sleep apnea diagnoses throughout the U.S. In fact, according to one estimate published by the National Council on Aging, around 39 million adults in this country have OSA! Could you be at risk of developing it? In this blog post, you will learn about risk factors and symptoms that you should be aware of. If you suspect you have OSA, you can protect your health by seeking timely treatment.

Who Is Most Likely to Develop OSA?

Although obstructive sleep apnea can impact people of various ages, lifestyles, and backgrounds, research has identified specific groups that are more susceptible to this condition. Below are some of the primary risk factors:

• Excessive body weight: Individuals who are overweight or obese tend to have a higher likelihood of developing OSA. This is in part because the accumulation of fat around the neck area may place additional pressure on the airway, making it prone to obstruction during sleep.
• Advancing age: As people grow older, the muscles within their throat and airway can weaken. This natural aging process increases the probability of breathing disruptions throughout the night.
• Smoking and tobacco use: The use of cigarettes and related products can cause irritation and inflammation of the upper airway. This increases airway resistance, potentially contributing to the development of OSA.
• Biological sex: Statistically, males are at a greater risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea than females. However, for females, the risk rises significantly after menopause, likely due to hormonal changes.

If you fit into one of the above-listed categories, you should keep close watch on the quality of your sleep and seek treatment if you start to notice symptoms, which can include daytime exhaustion, loud snoring, and observed pauses in breathing during sleep.

Minimize Your Risk and Reduce Symptoms

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce your likelihood of developing obstructive sleep apnea or to manage its symptoms effectively:

• Weight management: Losing even a modest amount of weight can significantly improve your breathing during sleep.
• Engage in physical activity: Regular exercise may help alleviate OSA symptoms and improve your respiratory function, even if you do not experience weight loss.
• Reduce airway congestion: Allergies and nasal congestion can worsen sleep apnea. You may want to address these issues through medication or environmental adjustments. For example, doing a deep clean of your bedroom may be helpful.
• Make healthy choices: Avoiding smoking and moderating alcohol consumption can lower your risk of developing or worsening OSA symptoms.

Seeking Professional Help

If you are concerned about your risk of developing OSA or if you suspect you may already have the condition, consider consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Treatment options, such as oral appliance therapy, are available and can be life-changing for those struggling with this disorder.

Sleep apnea is on the rise, but that does not mean you will become a victim of this condition! By taking some simple steps, you can protect your health and quality of life.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Kenneth Mogell and our team have been tackling sleep apnea effectively for over a decade, offering non-invasive treatments designed to help patients breathe easier and sleep more soundly. If you are ready to explore your treatment options, reach out to our Boca Raton office at 561-353-5252. We look forward to speaking with you.