Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects an estimated 30 million Americans according to the American Medical Association. However, only about six million people are diagnosed with this condition. This disorder can result in numerous negative side effects, including daytime sleepiness, a lack of focus, and an increased risk of numerous serious health issues – like memory loss. Continue reading to learn more about the connection between the two.
What Is the Connection Between Sleep Apnea & Memory Loss?
In a recent study, a connection was found between sleep apnea and Alzheimer disease. Research found that damage in the brain stains in the same place and spreads similarly in sleep apnea and Alzheimer’s. Other studies have shown that those who have sleep apnea were diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment an average of 10 years earlier than those without sleep-breathing issues. Fortunately, researchers also found that those who treated their sleep apnea were diagnosed with these issues approximately 10 years later than those whose issues weren’t treated. Ultimately, by addressing sleep apnea symptoms, you could reduce your risk of medical conditions related to cognitive impairment as you get older.
What Are the Signs of Sleep Apnea?
If you think that you might have sleep apnea, it’s important that you seek treatment as soon as possible. Here are some of the most common signs.
- Loud snoring
- Excessive sleepiness
- Waking up gasping
- Dry mouth and/or sore throat
- Frequent morning headaches
- Difficulty focusing
- Mood chances
- Elevated blood pressure
Getting quality sleep each night is necessary for your body to thrive. If you aren’t getting the rest you need, the systems in your body don’t work together how they should. Here are some of the steps you should take if you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea.
- Seek a Diagnosis: To be treated for sleep apnea, you need to receive a diagnosis from a sleep doctor. When you undergo a sleep test, it will be confirmed if sleep apnea is the culprit of your symptoms.
- Undergo Treatment: After you’ve received your diagnosis, steps can be taken to relieve your symptoms. There are various options out there to treat sleep apnea. CPAP therapy is common and works great for some patients, but some people find it uncomfortable and impractical. Oral appliance therapy is an excellent alternative solution. By working with your sleep dentist, you can put together a plan that is right for you.
- Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
If you think that you might have sleep apnea, it is worthwhile to seek help from a professional. By getting to the bottom of your symptoms, you can work to achieve quality sleep and optimal brain health.
About the Practice
At Schumacher Dental, Dr. Rob Schumacher and Dr. Katherine Staniek work together to treat patients in the Wakefield community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about sleep apnea treatment or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (781) 334-3400.