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15
May
Overcome the Effects of Untreated Sleep Apnea with a Minimally Invasive Treatment
Most likely, you’re aware that maintaining a regular exercise routine and adopting a healthy diet is vital for sustaining your physical and mental well-being. However, did you know quality sleep is essential for your health, too? Sleep helps your body rest, recover, and rejuvenate. And not only that. There is a direct relationship between sleep and improved immunity, helping you reduce the risk of heart disease, depression, diabetes, and other ailments.
Unfortunately, if you have sleep apnea, you can’t get the adequate sleep required by the body. But does that mean you resign to this fate? The doctors at Triad Dentistry disagree. If you suspect sleep apnea, seek treatment immediately before your health takes a nosedive. We offer a simple yet effective treatment to help you overcome sleep apnea.
What is sleep apnea?
The term “sleep apnea” comes from the Greek words “apnoea,” meaning “without breath,” and “hypno,” meaning “sleep.” Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by brief but repetitive interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can cause a person to wake up frequently throughout the night and experience unpleasant symptoms during the day.
Although there are several types of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common. This sleep disorder occurs when the upper airway muscles relax, blocking your airway when sleeping. Your breathing pauses for about 10 seconds or more until your reflexes kick in to restart breathing. These apneic episodes can happen up to a hundred times in a night!
Sleep apnea may be witnessed by the bed partner more than the sufferer. Your sleeping partner may notice your loud snoring and pause in breathing. However, as the victim, you may experience the following symptoms.
- Morning headaches
- Waking up with a sore throat
- Daytime fatigue
- Irritability
- Low sex drive
- Poor concentration
- Forgetfulness
Such consequences are enough to make you seek prompt treatment. However, if you need a little more convincing, read on to discover the long-term effects of untreated sleep apnea.
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Effects of untreated sleep apnea
Tossing and turning at night? Struggling with daytime fatigue despite sleeping for many hours at night? That’s just the beginning — sleep apnea has a much deeper impact than just terrible nights. This sleep disorder can cause long-term health complications that take significant time to correct. Let’s look at some.
- Hypertension — when you wake up at night and don’t get adequate oxygen, this may send your blood pressure into overdrive. Elevated blood pressure can lead to various health complications, such as damage to the heart and kidneys.
- Cardiovascular disease — hypertension and an oxygen-deprived body puts you at risk of stroke and heart disease.
- Mental problems — quality sleep is vital for optimal mental health. Untreated sleep apnea may result in memory loss, mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
- Obesity — the stress of insomnia nights causes your body to conserve more energy than usual. Besides, stress makes you less motivated to observe your weight loss routine.
- Death — the above complications are already life-threatening, but unaddressed sleep apnea has more to offer. Sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of accidents and injuries, such as vehicular accidents and workplace incidents, because of decreased cognitive function.
Don’t let sleep apnea take control of your health. Triad Dentistry in Greensboro, NC, can help. We offer custom-made sleep apnea devices to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. Trade in your restless nights for a refreshed period of slumber by dialing (336) 383-1482.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
