The impact of sleep apnea on your mood and health can surprise you. If the problem goes on for a period of time without treatment, it can cause symptoms seen in people suffering from sleep deprivation. This means problems for your ability to focus, trouble with irritability and fatigue, as well as worrying physical symptoms. If you want to protect yourself against the effects of this condition, it can be a good idea to watch for symptoms as soon as they begin to affect you. At our Livonia, MI clinic, we can talk to you about symptoms of sleep apnea, identify your risk factors, and – if necessary – recommend treatment options.
Should I Worry About Sleep Apnea If I Do Not Snore?
While snoring is often linked to sleep apnea, you should not assume that your sleep is undisturbed just because you are not aware of snoring troubles. If you suffer from UARS, or upper airway resistance syndrome, you can be vulnerable to sleep apnea, and may show signs of fatigue that are present among people who have the condition. Letting your dentist know that you are struggling to feel rested, even on nights when you believe you stayed asleep for an appropriate length of time, can lead to beneficial discussions about sleep treatment.
Factors That Can Raise Your Risk For Sleep Troubles
There are several factors that can suggest a person is at more risk for experiencing sleep apnea. If the condition affects others in your family, if you have a higher weight, or if you frequently drink in the evenings, you can be more likely to develop this problem. Physical issues like having a larger neck, or a deviated septum, can also affect your risk.
Take Symptoms Of Fatigue Seriously
Some people remain unaware that they snore, which means that this prominent symptom of sleep apnea is going undetected. If you sleep alone, or if your partner is not likely to hear your snoring for any reason, you should look out for symptoms of fatigue to warn you of a possible problem. If sluggishness, irritability, and a lack of focus are frequent issues, if you often feel drowsy and have to resist falling asleep at inopportune times, or show any other symptoms of fatigue, it could be sleep apnea. Remember that in addition to affecting your mood, a lack of sleep can take a toll on your body. You can experience problems with high blood pressure, or you may even develop an irregular heartbeat over time if you are not treating sleep apnea.
Talk To Your Livonia, MI Dentist If You Think Sleep Apnea Affects You
Do you have a reason to suspect that sleep apnea is affecting you? If so, make sure you seek treatment to stop the matter before it causes more problems for your health. To find out how your troubles can be treated, contact your Livonia, MI, dentist, Dr. Stewart, by calling (734) 425-4400.
