Sleep apnea has almost become a buzzword in modern health discussions, and for good reason. More people are being diagnosed with this potentially serious condition than ever before! But is this sleep issue really on the rise, or are there other factors at play? Continue reading to explore the reasons behind this seeming epidemic in sleep apnea suffering.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the throat muscles relax and block the airway. If left untreated, it can lead to health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and chronic fatigue.
What the Statistics Say
Studies show that millions of Americans suffer from sleep disorders, with the numbers steadily increasing. Experts estimate that around 26 percent of adults between 30 and 70 years old have sleep apnea—many of them undiagnosed. This means that millions of people could be at risk of serious health complications without even realizing it!
Obesity and Sleep Apnea
So, what is causing this meteoric rise in sleep disruption cases? One of the leading risk factors is obesity, which is rising markedly in the US. Excess weight, particularly around your neck, increases the likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep.
A healthy diet and exercise have been shown to reduce the risk of developing sleep disorders and improve outcomes for those already diagnosed. This means that if you’re already experiencing sleep issues, it’s never too late to turn it around.
Increased Awareness and Better Diagnosis
Weight gain isn’t the only reason for the rise of sleep apnea cases. Awareness campaigns and advances in medical technology have made it easier to diagnose the condition. Sleep studies, at-home monitoring devices, and physician training have all improved, leading to the identification of more cases.
The good news is, with more awareness, the stigma around seeking help for sleep-related issues is fading. In the future, this may encourage more people to seek a diagnosis and get the treatment they need.
Sleep Apnea and the Stress of Modern Life
Stress, irregular sleep patterns, and increased screen time are all hallmarks of modern life that may also play a role in the rise of sleep disorders. In fact, there are multiple studies that show how poor sleeping conditions are known to worsen the symptoms. Because these issues have become so prevalent, it’s no wonder that cases of sleep-related disorders have steadily increased over time.
So, are sleep apnea cases on the rise? Statistically, yes. However, it’s not accurate to say that the rise is sudden or unpredictable. There are many factors that contribute to the increase, making the issue more complex. Despite this, one thing is clear—If you suspect you or a loved one has a sleep disorder, don’t wait to get help! Call your local sleep dentist to schedule a consultation and take your first step toward relief.
About the Practice
At Premier Dental, Dr. Adam Jones and Dr. Giuliana Diaz Jones form a dynamic duo of prosthodontists dedicated to enhancing your sleep and smile. Utilizing modern dental technology and gentle techniques, they address a wide range of oral health issues. If you’re struggling with sleep apnea, their extensive experience ensures you receive the relief you need! Call (772) 234-5353 to schedule a sleep apnea consultation with our team or visit our website to learn more.