Esther Rodriguez Villegas, a professor at Imperial College London and founder of Acurable, recently spoke about the common health issues related to sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to various health risks, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health issues.
While sleep apnea can affect anyone, it is more common in older men, those who are overweight, have a thicker neck circumference, and those who consume alcohol or use sedatives. Untreated sleep apnea can also lead to significantly worse glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes, making it essential to address the issue promptly.
In addition to health risks, sleep apnea can impair energy and concentration levels, increasing the risk of car accidents and affecting school or work performance. Symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, frequent waking at night, morning headaches, dry mouth, sore throat, fatigue, irritability, or a bad mood during the day.
Various treatment options are available for sleep apnea, including CPAP machines, mandibular advancement devices, surgery, lifestyle changes, and tonsillectomies. Despite the prevalence of sleep apnea, only a fraction of those affected are diagnosed, with approximately 30 million people in the U.S. estimated to have the disorder.
The Mayo Clinic recommends seeking a healthcare provider for examination and treatment if you suspect you have sleep apnea. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals with the disorder and help prevent potential health complications down the line.
