Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep condition that many people don’t know they have. Although snoring is often considered a key symptom of sleep apnea, there are other signs that you shouldn’t ignore so you can seek treatment as early as possible. Treating OSA is important because of the associated health risks, including sudden heart attack and stroke.
Sleep Apnea Risks
Sleep apnea poses significant health risks beyond simply feeling tired during the day. People suffering from untreated sleep apnea are at higher risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure. Getting high quality sleep can improve your overall health and wellbeing.
Why Sleep Is So Important to Our Health
- Better memory: People say if you are trying to memorize or learn something new, studying it before you go to bed can help increase your chances of remembering it. When you sleep, your mind is still processing, and you store information while your body rests.
- Improved attention span: For people going through school or work, getting enough sleep can be the difference in being able to retain information better, boost creativity, and stay focused longer.
- Weight maintenance: Sleep and metabolism are controlled by the same part of the brain so there is a strong connection between being well rested and a stable metabolism. People who get more sleep said they were less hungry throughout the day.
- Mental health benefits: Getting enough sleep may help you manage depression, stress, and anxiety. Feeling well rested will help control feelings of irritability and help you establish a healthy mindset.
Sleep Apnea Consultation in Chesapeake, VA
At Coastal Virginia Sleep Solutions, you’ll get treatment from Dr. Harper, in the top 1% of dentists that specialize in sleep medicine. With his additional education and training, you get someone who’s extremely experienced in the field and can get you the help you need. Call us today or schedule an appointment online to get started!