Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea, the cessation of breathing during sleep, is a common problem that affects both adults and children. Certain sleep apnea types can be treated by your dentist or oral surgeon. Your doctor may also be a part of the diagnosis and treatment.
The National Institutes of Health estimate that more than 12 million Americans have sleep apnea, most often undetected or misdiagnosed. In fact, conservative estimates suggest that only 16% of sleep apnea sufferers receive treatment.
Sleep Apnea
Untreated sleep apnea affects your well-being. Sleep apnea may contribute to high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and erectile dysfunction, as well as to memory and concentration impairment. Since sleep apnea reduces the quality of your sleep and contributes to daytime sleepiness, driving becomes more dangerous. In fact, sleep apnea is a leading cause of car accidents.