The average life expectancy in the U.S. is around 78 years. However, many people live even longer than that. Are you looking for ways to care for yourself so you can thrive well into your 80s, 90s, or beyond? If so, you should pay attention to the quality of your sleep — and you should seek sleep apnea treatment if necessary. How could untreated sleep apnea shorten your life, and how might treatment help you live longer? This blog post explains.
How Sleep Apnea Could Shorten Your Life
Sleep apnea causes you to stop breathing repeatedly during the night, sometimes hundreds of times. These interruptions deprive your body of the oxygen it needs to function properly and recover. The consequences may include:
- Cardiovascular issues: Sleep apnea is closely linked to high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. Each episode of disrupted breathing puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels, increasing your risk of life-threatening events.
- Diabetes: Poor sleep quality can interfere with your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. You may develop insulin resistance, which could eventually lead to type 2 diabetes.
- Obesity: Lack of restful sleep may cause hormonal imbalances that make you feel hungry more often. You could gain weight, which in turn may worsen sleep apnea and create a dangerous cycle.
- Accidents: Daytime fatigue from untreated sleep apnea increases your chances of falling asleep at the wheel or making mistakes at work, sometimes with tragic outcomes.
- Shortened lifespan: When these health issues pile up, your risk of premature death rises significantly. Untreated sleep apnea is associated with a higher overall mortality rate.
The Benefits of Treatment
The above information might seem scary, but fortunately, effective treatments for sleep apnea are available, and addressing the condition can make a dramatic difference in your quality of life and longevity! Here are some benefits that you may experience as a result of timely treatment:
- Lower risk of heart problems: Proper treatment, such as using a custom oral appliance, reduces your risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure, and strokes.
- Improved blood sugar control: Consistent sleep helps regulate hormones and supports better management of diabetes.
- Weight management: Quality sleep supports healthy metabolism and appetite control, making it easier for you to maintain a healthy weight.
- Enhanced mental clarity: Restorative sleep improves your focus, memory, and mood, allowing you to perform at your best throughout the day.
- Longer, healthier life: By reducing your chances of developing serious illnesses, you increase your odds of living a longer, more fulfilling life.
Sleep apnea does not have to dictate your future! If you suspect this condition is adversely affecting your health, seek professional care right away so you can enjoy improved wellness that lasts for years to come.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Dean Hutto is an experienced dentist and a proud member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Under his leadership, our team offers at-home sleep testing and custom oral appliance therapy. If you believe you have sleep apnea or want to learn more about your treatment options, we would be happy to consult with you. Contact Sleep Better Baytown at 281-422-8249.