Even though the internet has provided more information than ever before, myths and falsehoods continue to cloud understanding for many people. Sleep apnea is an extremely common condition, but not everyone knows the truth about it! Here are some of the most prevalent myths surrounding sleep apnea and the complex truths you need to understand!
Myth: Sleep Apnea Only Affects Men.
While it’s true that men tend to have sleep apnea more than women, men are not the only group at risk. Being overweight also raises your chances of getting this condition because excess facial and neck tissues can block airways during sleep. Also, older age can contribute to risk; once women enter menopause, sleep apnea becomes an increased threat. Even children can have sleep apnea!
Myth: Everyone Who Snores Has Sleep Apnea.
Loud snoring is an easily identifiable symptom, especially for partners of those with sleep apnea. However, it is far from the most important one, and, in fact, it isn’t even a required symptom! You can snore and not have this condition. The main problems a sleep apnea patient likely experiences include:
- Fatigue during the day
- Feeling tired despite the number of hours in bed
- Morning headaches
- Mood swings
- Inability to focus
- Sexual dysfunction
These signs can result from not getting adequate rest consistently. If you or your partner suffers from these other symptoms on a regular basis, you may suggest consulting a sleep expert for additional testing.
Myth: Sleep Apnea Isn’t Dangerous.
Again, if you think snoring is the worst part of sleep apnea, you’ll miss the real danger. This condition interrupts essential rest for your brain, and the effects can impair tasks that demand your full attention, such as driving. Operating a car while drowsy can be just as deadly as driving drunk. In addition, when breathing stops, your body triggers a stress response to reinitiate breathing, resulting in a rise in blood pressure. Without treatment, high blood pressure can become the norm, which raises your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other potentially life-threatening events.
Myth: Sleep Apnea Treatment Always Involves a CPAP Machine.
For many patients, a CPAP machine, which constantly pushes air through the airway through a facial or nasal mask, works effectively, allowing them to sleep deeply. However, many others find CPAP masks just as difficult or distracting as sleep apnea itself! This bulky machine can also present challenges when traveling.
In contrast, an oral appliance can shift the lower jaw forward, opening the airway in a less invasive way. This small device is much more mobile and convenient for those with minor to moderate sleep apnea.
Myths and misinformation may continue to spread on the internet, but you can know the truth about sleep apnea and help your loved ones who might have this condition get tested and treated.
About the Practice
SleepMed Solutions is a unique sleep clinic with multiple experts in the field. In fact, we have a sleep dentist, a physician’s assistant, and our medical director. Each comes with decades of clinical experience and training specifically in sleep apnea. In addition to CPAP treatment, we are proud to offer custom oral appliances and to provide relief and rest to our patients. Do you think you might have sleep apnea? Contact our Greensboro office online or call us at 336-907-7773 to schedule an appointment.