Did you know that snoring could be more than just an annoying habit? Heavy snoring, especially when it’s caused by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), can increase your risk of experiencing a stroke or even death. OSA, which affects about 20% of all adults, can lead to severe health issues in just one month.
The Health Risks of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
A study conducted at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston has shown that just one month of moderate OSA can alter cerebrovascular function and potentially lead to a stroke. Researcher Randy Crossland warns that OSA can have a damaging impact on the body. Alarmingly, it’s estimated that up to 85% of people with clinically significant sleep apnea are not even aware that they suffer from it.
Obesity and aging are two factors strongly associated with OSA. However, as Crossland notes, non-obese individuals and even children can also have OSA. While the prevalence of obesity continues to rise and the population ages, we can expect the rates of OSA to climb as well.
Although OSA is more commonly found in men than in women, some researchers believe the actual rate in females has been underestimated.
Signs and Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
It’s essential to be aware of the common signs and symptoms of OSA, which include:
- Habitual snoring
- Daytime sleepiness
- Enlarged neck size
- Morning headaches
- Sexual dysfunction
- Mood and behavioral changes
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to take them seriously and seek medical advice. OSA is a severe yet treatable disorder and should not be taken lightly.
How to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea
If you think you may have OSA, it’s vital to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Treatment options include:
- Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and changing sleep positions can help alleviate OSA symptoms. Additionally, quitting smoking can improve overall respiratory health and reduce the severity of OSA.
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Continues Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): The most common treatment for OSA is the use of a CPAP machine, which delivers a constant flow of air through a mask, helping to keep the airways open during sleep1.
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Oral appliances: Specially designed dental devices can help shift the lower jaw forward, preventing the airway from collapsing and reducing the symptoms of OSA2.
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Surgery: In some cases, a surgical procedure might be necessary to treat OSA, such as removing excess tissue in the throat, correcting nasal abnormalities, or implanting nerve stimulation devices to control tongue movements during sleep3.
Preventing Stroke and Improving Health
Taking control of your sleep health and treating OSA has numerous benefits, including reducing the risk of experiencing a stroke. Other steps you can take to lower the likelihood of a stroke include:
- Eating a healthy diet: Opt for foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
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Regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week4.
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Limit alcohol intake: Keep to moderate levels of alcohol consumption, no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men5.
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Manage stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises.
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Control existing medical conditions: If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, work with your healthcare provider to manage and control these conditions.
By understanding the risks associated with obstructive sleep apnea and taking appropriate steps to treat and manage it, you can dramatically reduce your likelihood of experiencing a stroke and improve your overall health and well-being.
