Sleep apnea is a common but serious disorder that causes a person's breathing to stop temporarily during sleep. These breathing pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes. If you believe you may have sleep apnea, speak to a medical professional.
But what should you ask?
What do you need to know?
WelPro Health can also assist you with talking with a physician, completing your sleep study, and supplying you with CPAP equipment if your doctor recommends one.
If you’re a representative from a corporation interested in investing in a sleep apnea wellness program for your employees, please contact WelPro Health to get started on setting up your program today.
Who Is At Risk?
Sleep apnea impacts roughly 40 million adults in the United States, and 80% of the population goes undiagnosed. While this condition is more common in adult men, women and children can also experience it. Furthermore, there are a variety of factors that increase your risk of developing sleep apnea, such as:
Smoking
Being overweight
Using alcohol or sedatives
Eating large meals before bed
Know the Signs of Sleep Apnea
Symptoms can vary, but there are a variety of consistent indications that you may have sleep apnea. Consider consulting with a doctor if you’re experiencing:
- Choking or gasping when you wake up
- Dry mouth/sore throat when you wake up
- Frequent bathroom usage at night
- Irritability and mood swings
- Loud snoring
- Memory and attention problems
- Headaches
- Heartburn
- Night sweats
- Sexual dysfunction
Dangers of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a severe sleep disorder. Complications from this condition can include, but are not limited to:
- High blood pressure
- Heart problems
- Type 2 diabetes
- Liver problems
- Stroke
- Obesity
- Depression
- Increased absenteeism
- Higher healthcare cost
- Motor vehicle accidents (caused by fatigue)
- Strained relationships (sleep-deprived partners)
Treatment for Sleep Apnea
To determine if you have sleep apnea, you'll need to see a doctor or sleep specialist to receive a diagnosis. They'll evaluate your symptoms and perform a sleep study.
If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor will determine the best treatment course. Depending on a person's type and severity of sleep apnea, treatment may include:
- Lifestyle changes (e.g., weight loss, exercise, dieting, sleep position)
- Mouthpiece
- Implant
- Continuous positive airflow pressure (CPAP) therapy
Here’s How WelPro Health Can Help