If you’re one of the millions of people around the world who snore at night, you might want to consider the very real and dangerous health risks associated with this seemingly harmless habit. Beyond being a nuisance to your bed partner, snoring and other forms of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) have been shown to increase the risk of heart problems and can even multiply your chances of dying from cancer.
Sleep Disordered Breathing and Cancer Risk
Researchers from the University of Wisconsin discovered that mild SDB can increase your risk of death from cancer by approximately 10 percent, while severe SDB can increase this risk by a factor of five. According to F. Javier Nieto, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the Department of Population Health Sciences at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, their findings are the first to suggest that SDB is associated with an increased risk of cancer mortality in humans.
This connection between SDB and cancer makes sense when considering that recent studies on animals and in vitro (test tube) experiments have shown that repeated episodes of hypoxia (inadequate supply of oxygen) are associated with accelerated cancer progression.
Consequences of Chronic Snoring
But what exactly does snoring have to do with hypoxia? Snoring is caused by partial blockage of the upper airway during sleep, which impedes airflow and may sometimes lead to interrupted breathing known as sleep apnea. When you have sleep apnea, your body is repeatedly deprived of oxygen, putting you at greater risk for heart problems and other serious health issues – including cancer.
The constant struggle for breath throughout the night can cause a number of concerning side effects:
- Fragmented and unrefreshing sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Impaired cognitive function
- Increased risk of high blood pressure
- Increased risk of stroke
- Heart attack
- Obesity
- Diabetes
Understanding the seriousness of these health consequences should be a major incentive for those who snore to take action and seek help.
Prevention and Treatment Options
If you or someone you know suffers from snoring or other SDB symptoms, there are several prevention and treatment options to consider. Making lifestyle changes is always a good start; these include losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, sleeping on your side to promote better airway alignment, and establishing a regular sleep routine.
For more severe cases, medical interventions may be necessary. Consulting with a sleep specialist can help determine the appropriate course of action, which may include sleep studies, prescribed medications, or the use of devices such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines that help maintain open airways during sleep.
In some instances, surgery may be recommended to address anatomical issues that contribute to SDB, such as adenoid or tonsil removal, nasal surgery to improve airflow, or more complex procedures to restructure the airway.
The Importance of Awareness
The connections between snoring, SDB, and serious health risks like increased cancer mortality underscore the importance of raising awareness about what is often dismissed as a simple inconvenience. It’s essential for those who snore or suffer from other SDB symptoms to recognize the potential dangers and to take the necessary steps to effectively address and manage their condition.
In conclusion, snoring doesn’t just rob you and your bed partner of a night of restful sleep; it could also be robbing you of your health and well-being. If you suspect that you or someone you care about may be suffering from SDB or other sleep-related disorders, don’t hesitate to consult a medical professional to discuss prevention and treatment options.
By taking action, you’re not only improving your quality of life but might also be saving your life from serious health risks like heart problems and the increased risk of dying from cancer. Remember, each night spent snoring might be bringing you one step closer to life-threatening health complications – so don’t delay in seeking help and breaking the cycle of chronic snoring.
