A prevalent sleep problem that affects millions of people worldwide is sleep apnea. Despite how common it is, there are still a lot of myths about this ailment. To comprehend and effectively handle sleep apnea, it’s critical to distinguish fact from myth regarding its causes and available treatments. To clarify the frequently misunderstood issue of sleep apnea, sleep apnea dentists in Denver are busting the top five myths about it.
Myth 1: Sleep Apnea Only Affects Older, Overweight Men
One of the most pervasive misconceptions regarding sleep apnea is that only older, overweight men are susceptible to it. Although these factors can indeed raise the likelihood of getting sleep apnea, this group of people is not the only one affected. Every age, gender, and body type is susceptible to sleep apnea. In actuality, people with a healthy body weight, women, and children are also susceptible to sleep apnea. As a result, it’s critical to identify the signs and risk factors in many people.
Myth 2: Loud Snoring Equals Sleep Apnea
Although sleep apnea is frequently linked to loud snoring, it’s crucial to realize that not everyone who snores loudly has the disorder. Snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, but it’s not the only one. Repeated episodes of disrupted breathing, while you sleep, are called sleep apnea, and they cause oxygen depletion and irregular sleep cycles. The individual can wake up gasping for oxygen as a result of these disruptions. Therefore, it is advisable to undertake a thorough screening for sleep apnea if loud snoring is accompanied by frequent awakenings and other related symptoms.
Myth 3: Sleep Apnea is Just a Minor Annoyance
Although sleep apnea is a mere inconvenience, it can have detrimental effects on one’s health. Several health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cognitive impairments, have been associated with untreated sleep apnea. Breathing disturbances that occur frequently might put stress on the cardiovascular system and cause problems that could be fatal. Maintaining general health and well-being depends on early detection and treatment of sleep apnea.
Myth 4: Only Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy Works
Although CPAP therapy is a well-known and successful method of treating sleep apnea, it is not the only one. Due to the false belief that CPAP is the only treatment option, many people hesitate to seek help. Alternative therapies are available, though, including positional therapy, lifestyle changes, dental appliances, and in some cases surgery. The choice of treatment is influenced by the degree of sleep apnea, a person’s preferences, and other elements. The best course of treatment can be chosen with the assistance of a sleep apnea dentist in Denver.
Myth 5: Snoring is Harmless and Normal
Many people dismiss snoring as a harmless and common occurrence. However, loud, persistent snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea. When airflow is obstructed the surrounding tissues vibrate and produce snoring. If you have sleep apnea, the airway closes off, causing breathing pauses. Ignoring snoring as a non-problem might delay the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea, potentially worsening its effects on health.
Schedule An Appointment With A Sleep Apnea Specialist Today!
An accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment depend on knowing the real cause of sleep apnea. Debunking these widespread misconceptions can aid people in identifying the signs, danger signs, and potential effects of sleep apnea. It’s crucial to consult a doctor, preferably a sleep apnea dentist in Denver if you or a loved one exhibits symptoms like loud snoring, daily weariness, or frequent awakenings. Contact Wynkoop Dentistry in Denver for more information.
