Waking up tired, falling asleep during the day, and snoring at night are signs that you may have a sleep disorder. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects more people than you’d think, because most people don’t realize they have it or don’t get treated for it. Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that goes beyond just snoring.
Sleep plays an important role in our health, and not getting enough of it can put you at serious risk of health problems like heart attack, reduced lifespan, and other effects of reduced oxygen levels.
If you’re not getting enough sleep, contact Dr. William Harper at Coastal Virginia Sleep Solutions to schedule your sleep study to determine the best treatment.
What Does Sleep Apnea Do To The Body?
1. Our bodies need sleep to function properly. Sleep apnea disrupts healthy sleep patterns, and over time will cause your health to deteriorate.
2. Sleep apnea increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, stroke, high blood pressure, male impotence, decreased sex drive, memory loss, obesity, difficulty concentrating, and headaches.
3. Patients with sleep apnea wake suddenly hundreds of times per night, though they may not realize it. Sleep apnea robs your body of oxygen, and your body cannot function properly with reduced oxygen levels.
4. Sleep apnea can reduce your lifespan by eight to 18 years.
5. Poor sleep negatively affects your daily life, making it difficult to think creatively, remember, and concentrate. This can become dangerous when driving or performing difficult tasks.
Request a Sleep Consultation
If you have been told by your partner that you snore, consider coming in for a screening. Dr. Harper will provide a thorough evaluation of your oral health to look for common oral signs of a sleep disorder and discuss your overall health history and lifestyle habits.
An experienced dentist with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ and other complex dental problems, Dr. Harper has partnered with local sleep medicine specialists to coordinate leading care for our patients.
Schedule your consultation online or by phone at (757) 600-0861 today to improve your quality of sleep and quality of life.