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Sleep apnea is a serious sleeping disorder that causes a person to stop and start breathing in intervals throughout the night. It has a profound impact on well-being and often goes untreated since it occurs while you’re asleep. Whether you’ve been diagnosed by a throat doctor or suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s important to understand the following dangers to ensure you seek treatment.

The Negative Impacts of Sleep Apnea

1. High Blood Pressure

Sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax, allowing the soft palate and tissue to close the airway. Regular drops in blood-oxygen levels can increase blood pressure. This has a dangerous effect on your cardiovascular system that could lead to irregular heartbeat, heart attack, and even sudden death for those already dealing with heart disease.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

People with sleep apnea have been shown to develop insulin resistance and reduced glucose tolerance. Insulin controls blood-sugar levels and helps the body convert sugar into energy. When this system fails, the body won’t regulate glucose levels correctly, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.

3. Fatigue

throat-doctor-lincolnThose with sleep apnea sleep poorly, which can create cognitive problems during the day. Chronic fatigue affects mood and may manifest as depression or anxiety. People will have trouble with problem-solving, critical thinking, and paying attention, which can affect work performance and lead to accidents. Snoring and other sleep apnea side effects can also affect your partner’s quality of sleep, introducing problems for them.

A throat doctor will recommend a CPAP machine to resolve sleep apnea. This device includes a mask that a person wears while they sleep. The CPAP machine delivers a light, constant flow of oxygen to keep the airways open.

4. Nervous & Immune System Disorders

Central sleep apnea is caused by disruptions in your brain’s communication system with your body. Disruptions can lead to nervous system disorders, such as feeling numbness or tingling in parts of the body. It can also weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to developing infections or contracting illnesses.

 

If you have concerns about sleep apnea, a throat doctor at Ear Nose & Throat Specialties PC will help. This privately-owned Lincoln, NE, practice has welcomed patients since 1991. Their ENT staff provides allergy testing, solutions for hearing loss, and treatment options for sinus disorders. You can begin exploring hearing aids and other services on their website or call (402) 488-5600 to schedule an appointment. Connect on Facebook to receive more health tips.

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