Sleep Apnea FAQs
How many people have sleep apnea?
An estimated 26% of people in the United States aged 30 to 70 have sleep apnea.
How many sleep apnea deaths are there per year?
Approximately 40,000 people with sleep apnea die from heart disease each year. The total number of people who die from other sleep apnea-related conditions could be much higher.
How common is sleep apnea by age?
The risk of developing sleep apnea increases with age. Starting around age 30, your risk of developing sleep apnea increases until the age of 70.
How many people have untreated sleep apnea?
It is estimated that 80% of people with sleep apnea are not being treated for it.
What cause sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that occurs when the airway collapses during sleep, causing breathing to be interrupted. The exact cause of OSA is different for each person, but some of the most common risk factors include:
Age: OSA is more common in people over age 40.
Neck size: People with a large neck are more likely to develop OSA.
Weight: Approximately half of OSA sufferers are overweight or obese.
Sex: Men are more likely to develop OSA than women.
Facial structure: People with a large tongue or small jaw may be more likely to develop OSA.
Tonsils and adenoids: Enlarged tonsils and adenoids can block the airway, leading to OSA.
Alcohol and sedatives: These substances can relax the muscles in the airway, making it more likely to collapse during sleep.
Nasal obstruction: A deviated septum or sinus and allergy problems can block the nose, making it more difficult to breathe through the nose during sleep.
It is important to note that not everyone with these risk factors will develop OSA. However, if you have any of these risk factors, you are more likely to develop the disorder. If you are concerned that you may have OSA, talk to your doctor.
Here are some additional tips to help prevent OSA:
Maintain a healthy weight. Losing even a small amount of weight can help reduce your risk of OSA.
Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed. These substances can relax the muscles in the airway, making it more likely to collapse during sleep.
Treat allergies and sinus problems. If you have allergies or sinus problems, treating them can help improve your breathing during sleep.
Use a humidifier. A humidifier can help keep your airways moist, which can help prevent them from collapsing during sleep.
Sleep on your side. Sleeping on your side can help keep your airway open.
If you think you may have OSA, talk to your doctor. They can assess your risk factors and recommend treatment options.
What are the risks of sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can have a number of serious health risks if it is not treated. Some of the most common risks of sleep apnea include:
Daytime sleepiness: People with sleep apnea often experience excessive daytime sleepiness, which can impair their ability to function at work, school, or while driving.
High blood pressure: Sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
Heart disease: Sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart disease, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, and heart failure.
Stroke: Sleep apnea can increase the risk of stroke, which is a serious neurological condition that can cause permanent disability or death.
Type 2 diabetes: Sleep apnea can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, a chronic health condition that affects how the body metabolizes sugar.
Accidents: People with sleep apnea are more likely to have accidents, including car crashes, workplace injuries, and falls.
Sudden cardiac death: In rare cases, sleep apnea can lead to sudden cardiac death, which is a sudden and unexpected death caused by a heart problem.
If you think you may have sleep apnea, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment for sleep apnea can help to reduce the risk of these serious health problems.
Here are some additional risks of sleep apnea:
Mood disorders: People with sleep apnea are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Cognitive impairment: Sleep apnea can impair cognitive function, including memory, attention, and decision-making.
Sleep deprivation: Sleep apnea can lead to chronic sleep deprivation, which can have a number of negative effects on health and well-being.
If you have any of the symptoms of sleep apnea, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation. Treatment for sleep apnea can help to improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of serious health problems.
Treatment for sleep apnea
Oral appliances are a type of treatment for sleep apnea that are worn in the mouth during sleep. They work by repositioning the jaw and tongue to open the airway and prevent obstruction.
There are many potential benefits to using oral appliances for sleep apnea, including:
Improved sleep quality: Oral appliances can help to reduce snoring and improve sleep quality. This can lead to increased energy levels, improved mood, and better concentration during the day.
Reduced risk of complications: Sleep apnea can increase the risk of serious health complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Oral appliances can help to reduce the risk of these complications.
Non-invasive treatment: Oral appliances are a non-invasive treatment for sleep apnea, which means that they do not require surgery or medication. This can be a major advantage for some people, as it is a more comfortable and convenient treatment option.
Safe and effective: Oral appliances are safe and effective for most people with mild to moderate sleep apnea. They are not as effective as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, but they are a good option for people who cannot tolerate CPAP or who prefer a non-invasive treatment.