Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can have serious complications. This condition causes the sufferer to repetitively stop and start breathing throughout the night. This interrupts the sleep schedule, leading to fatigue, headaches, difficulty focusing, and more. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, a new study has shown that having sleep apnea can actually cause you to age more quickly than someone who does not have sleeping disorder. Read on to learn more about why this happens and some signs that you or your partner could have sleep apnea.
How Did the Study Work?
The study included 622 adults, both men and women, with an average age of 69 years old. Participants were measured for blood DNA methylation, and their sleep was being evaluated at home by polysomnography. The researchers then studied participant’s blood to look for epigenetic changes in their DNA. In the end of the study, it was determined that the participants who had the highest severity of sleep-disordered breathing had accelerated epigenetic aging. This trend seemed to affect women more-se than men.
What Are the Signs of Sleep Apnea?
If you or your partner have the signs and symptoms below, it could point to sleep apnea.
- Snoring
- Dry mouth
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Hypersomnia during the day
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty focusing
How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?
Depending on the severity of the condition, sleep apnea can be treated in various ways.
- Lifestyle Changes: If a patient only has mild sleep apnea, sometimes it can be treated with simple lifestyle changes. By losing excess weight, abstaining from alcohol and tobacco, and sleeping in alternative positions some patients see effective results.
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): This treatment involves the sufferer wearing a mask over their nose during sleep. The mask is hooked up to a machine that delivers a constant flow of air. This treatment can be very effective, but many people find it uncomfortable and bulky, so they are less likely to be compliant with treatment.
- Oral Appliances: Patients who have mild to moderate sleep apnea but are unable to tolerate or get relief from CPAP may prefer an oral appliance. They are customized and worn in the mouth at night. They work by keeping the jaw in proper position to prevent obstruction.
If you think that you might have sleep apnea, tell your dentist! Together, you can work together to make a plan that’s right for you!
About the Author
Dr. John Jared Waite earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education and has completed courses in sleep apnea treatment. Currently, he is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. To learn more about sleep apnea or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (719) 282-3400.