A Matter of Life and Death: Could I Die from Untreated Sleep Apnea?

You may have already heard that untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can lead to or worsen a variety of medical conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, and depression. But what you may not have realized is that it can also increase your risk of both sudden death and dying from any cause. Here’s why leaving OSA untreated can put your health and your life in danger, and how you can get the rest you need to protect yourself.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition that occurs due to a blockage to the airway during sleep. Whether genetic, or due to excess weight or other issues, it causes the patient to stop and restart breathing throughout the night. Often, they will struggle to take in air, resulting in gasping, choking, or snoring. They may even wake frequently and have trouble falling or staying asleep. Unfortunately, the problems don’t end there, either.  In many cases, patients with OSA also have other serious round-the-clock medical problems that can be worsened by their sleep patterns and the oxygen deprivation caused by the airway blockage.

Why Does OSA Increase Your Risk of Death?

There are many reasons why OSA can increase your risk of death. Studies have shown that patients with what are known as “comorbid conditions” such as high blood pressure, cancer, heart disease, and diabetes are more likely to die of these illnesses than those who do not have OSA. Furthermore, those who do and do not have any other conditions but don’t treat OSA are at a higher risk of sudden death, because in rare cases they may be unable to restart breathing.

How Can You Treat OSA?

The good news is that there are treatment options available for patients with OSA. Although many are prescribed CPAP therapy, this solution often leaves a lot to be desired. Because some find the mask, tubing, and forced air uncomfortable, they are less likely to use it, and if you don’t comply with treatment, it unfortunately won’t work. Thankfully, your dentist may have a solution!  A custom sleep appliance can be made to fit your individual mouth. These devices are more discreet and comfortable than CPAP, and require no machinery, masks, or hard-to-clean tubes to work. In fact, they fit much like a bite guard and prop the airway open manually, allowing you to breathe easily without CPAP.

Remember, while rare, untreated OSA can be life-threatening. Stop struggling to get the rest you deserve and putting your wellbeing at risk in the process. Speak to your dentist today about a comfortable custom sleep appliance and get the sleep you need for a long, healthy life!

About Our Practice

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, Dr. Koops and Dr. Mollica want to make you healthy and happy! Whether they’re providing a smile-saving dental check-up and cleaning, or a potentially lifesaving custom sleep appliance, they are proud to help you live your best life. To learn more about how a sleep appliance can replace CPAP and give you the rest you need, schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling 216-464-2448.