Most people perceive snoring as a mundane issue. But it causes sleep disruptions, leading to many health complications. You can improve your quality of life with Newport Beach snoring interventions. Read on to find out about snoring and sleep apnea risks and complications.
How prevalent is snoring?
Snoring has implications for your health, but it is not a rare phenomenon. Approximately half of all adults have intermittent stints of snoring. A quarter of the population snores regularly.
In most studies, men tend to be more susceptible to snoring. The risk is higher for people who are overweight or obese. One research report suggested obese patients are ten times more likely to snore than
Who is at risk of snoring and sleep apnea?
Several factors may predispose you to sleep apnea and snoring. They include:
- Hereditary factors: You have three times the risk of snoring and sleep apnea if your family members have the condition. Genetics may cause craniofacial anomalies that may increase vibrations and obstructions in the airway.
- Sleep quality: Your sleep position and duration can affect the function of your throat muscle. If you lie on your back when sleeping, you are more likely to snore. Inadequate rest may cause nighttime sleep interruptions and breathing problems.
- Alcohol consumption: Alcohol acts as a sedative that relaxes craniofacial muscles, causing you to snore. Consuming alcohol before bed has more pronounced effects on your breathing and sleep pattern. Tranquilizers and sedatives have a similar impact on your muscles.
Snoring and sleep apnea complications
Sleep apnea
People who regularly snore are at high risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the airway is completely or partially blocked during sleep. It disrupts the deeper phases of sleep, causing patients to wake up during the REM stage.
The deeper phases of sleep are essential for healing and regeneration. You may wake up feeling lethargic and anxious. Inadequate rest may cause drowsiness throughout the day.
Metabolic and cardiovascular problems
Snoring and sleep apnea can cause metabolic and cardiovascular complications. Research on OSA indicates it influences insulin sensitivity and worsens diabetes symptoms.
OSA increases the risk of stroke and heart failure. Sleep disruptions from OSA affect your body’s regulation of stress hormones.
Cognitive and learning problems
Children with sleep apnea may develop cognitive and learning problems. It often impacts coordination between the brain and the body.
Adult patients may notice a dip in performance at work. Sleep apnea is cited as one of the leading contributors to automobile accidents and industrial injuries. The problem often arises from daytime sleepiness and fatigue, affecting your judgment.
Addressing snoring and sleep apnea
If you experience sleep disruptions due to snoring, your healthcare professional can recommend treatment options. The longer you have sleep apnea, the more likely it will lead to complications.
You can address snoring by taking conservative measures such as improving sleep quality and quitting alcohol. An exam will determine if you have craniofacial anomalies that require surgery to correct.
To learn more about snoring treatment options, call Dr. Alexis Furze to schedule your appointment today.
