The Danger of Untreated Sleep Apnea and The Long-Term Effects It Can Have on Your Life

Do you keep your husband, wife, or children up at night because of your loud and obnoxious snoring? Have you been told that there are times during your slumber when you stop breathing? These are just a couple of symptoms of a widespread disorder called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea presents itself in several ways. When you think about it, it can be pretty scary that there are times when you are asleep and unable to breathe. Even if it is just for a moment, there can be long-term health effects. If you are in the Greensboro, North Carolina area and seeking treatment for sleep apnea, please consider calling the doctors at Triad Dentistry.

If you are suffering from sleep apnea, it may seem like an issue that is a bigger problem for your partner you share a bed with than it is for yourself. After all, you are getting your nightly rest while they are awake due to your loud snoring or gasping. Sleep apnea is more than just a condition that leaves you feeling fatigued the next day. It can cause strain to your body, compromise your immune system, and even shorten your life. You cannot and should not ignore the symptoms.

Oxygen and Your Brain

If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, your brain is being deprived of oxygen as you sleep. Some individuals who suffer from sleep apnea suffer from hundreds of nightly episodes where they cease to breathe, thus depriving their brain of oxygen for seconds at a time. When your brain begins to be deprived of oxygen, your body will start to tighten and wake itself up. Your blood pressure will rise. Your teeth could even start to grind, leading to other issues with as temporomandibular joint disorder, chronic headaches, or broken dental work.

Oxygen deprivation will also lead to you feeling fatigued. Fatigue can be catastrophic in certain circumstances. Dozing off behind the wheel of your vehicle, for instance, not only endangers yourself but others as well. You may find that work production drops due to decreased concentration. Your overall health will be affected if you allow the condition to continue untreated.

Untreated Sleep Apnea

The longer you allow sleep apnea to go untreated, the likelihood is higher you will begin to experience a litany of health problems. Some of which can be life-threatening. If you suffer from common symptoms of sleep apnea, get examined. Undergo a sleep study. Look into quality treatment options. Whatever you do, it is better than doing nothing. Here are some common health side effects which can be directly linked to sleep apnea:

• Stroke
• High blood pressure
• Cardiovascular issues, including heart attack
• Diabetes
• Depression

As you can see, sleep apnea does not just affect the quality of your sleep. It can quickly affect the quality of your life.

If you believe you are suffering from sleep apnea and would like to learn more about possible treatment, please reach out to our dentists and the team at Triad Dentistry in Greensboro, North Carolina, today by calling (336) 383-1482.

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Dr. Chad Merrell

Dr. Sona Isharani

Dr. Bailey Walker

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.