Is Sleep Apnea Causing Your Symptoms? The Surprising Health Links You Need to Know
Many people think of sleep apnea as just a snoring problem, but the truth is much more serious. Left untreated, sleep apnea doesn’t just disrupt your sleep—it can put your heart, brain, and overall health at risk. If you wake up tired, experience frequent headaches, or suffer from unexplained health issues, sleep apnea could be the hidden culprit. At Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice in Marietta, we help patients recognize the warning signs of sleep apnea and provide effective treatment to improve both sleep and long-term health.
The Hidden Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea affects an estimated 25 million adults in the U.S., yet many remain undiagnosed. This condition causes repeated pauses in breathing while sleeping, sometimes hundreds of times per night. Each pause deprives your brain and body of oxygen, leading to dangerous health consequences over time.
1. Sleep Apnea and Heart Disease
One of the most alarming risks of untreated sleep apnea is its impact on cardiovascular health. Studies show that sleep apnea is linked to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia), and an increased risk of stroke.
- Fact: People with sleep apnea are 2-3 times more likely to suffer from heart disease (American Heart Association).
- Why? Oxygen deprivation causes spikes in blood pressure, putting strain on the heart over time.
2. Sleep Apnea and Diabetes
If you have Type 2 diabetes or are at risk, untreated sleep apnea can make blood sugar levels harder to control. Sleep disruptions interfere with insulin regulation, making it more difficult for your body to manage glucose properly.
- Fact: Up to 80% of people with Type 2 diabetes also have sleep apnea (National Institutes of Health).
- Why? Poor sleep leads to higher stress hormones, which can cause insulin resistance.
3. Sleep Apnea and Brain Health
Your brain needs quality sleep to function properly. Sleep apnea has been linked to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and an increased risk of dementia.
- Fact: Research shows that people with untreated sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
- Why? The repeated drop in oxygen levels can damage brain cells over time.
4. Sleep Apnea and Chronic Fatigue
If you feel exhausted every morning—even after a full night’s sleep—you might have sleep apnea. The repeated interruptions in breathing prevent deep, restorative sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and decreased productivity.
- Fact: People with sleep apnea are 5 times more likely to be involved in car accidents due to daytime drowsiness (National Sleep Foundation).
- Why? Lack of oxygen prevents the body from fully entering REM sleep, leading to constant exhaustion.
How Do You Know If You Have Sleep Apnea?
Some of the most common signs include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Waking up tired even after 7-8 hours of sleep
- Frequent morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
- High blood pressure that doesn’t respond to medication
Treating Sleep Apnea: Dr. Wayne Suway’s Approach in Marietta
If you suspect sleep apnea is affecting your health, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Dr. Wayne Suway’s practice in Marietta, we offer custom oral appliance therapy, a comfortable and non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines. These devices gently reposition the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep, improving breathing and restoring quality rest.
Take Control of Your Health Today
Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect your sleep—it impacts your entire body. If you’ve been struggling with unexplained health issues, it’s time to consider whether sleep apnea could be the missing piece.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Wayne Suway in Marietta today to explore your treatment options and reclaim your health through better sleep!
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1820 The Exchange SE, #600
Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone: (770) 953-1752
FAX: (770) 953-6470
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