Why Sleep Apnea Is on the Rise—And How You Can Lower Your Risk

Sleep apnea is no longer the difficult-to-understand condition that it once was. Over the past few years, diagnoses of sleep apnea have increased significantly across the country, with around 6 million or so new cases being diagnosed each year. While this rise can be concerning, it also reflects a growing awareness of the condition and improvements in screening methods. Here’s an in-depth look at why sleep apnea seems to be more prominent these days, and how seeking treatment can easily keep the condition’s symptoms at bay.

Why Is Sleep Apnea Seemingly on the Rise?

One major reason for the increase is awareness. As more patients and healthcare providers understand the risk of untreated sleep apnea, more people are being tested for it. In addition, improved sleep studies and home testing kits have also made it easier than ever before to get an accurate diagnosis.

The other key factor is lifestyle; certain risk factors have become more common in recent years, some of which can be linked to sleep apnea, including obesity, sedentary lifestyles that lead to poor cardiovascular health, old age, and more. As more people slip into habits and routines that don’t favor their sleep schedule, more become susceptible to sleep apnea and its many ill effects.

How Can My Sleep Apnea Risk Be Lowered?

The good news is that there are steps you can take to lower your risk of sleep apnea and improve your sleep quality, including:

• Maintain a healthy weight; even a small reduction can make a big difference in your ability to breathe each night.
• Exercise regularly, since physical activity helps strengthen your cardiovascular system and improves sleep quality. Plus, if you work out in the evenings, it may be easier for you to fall asleep.
• Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed, since these substances can relax the throat muscles and worsen sleep apnea symptoms.
• Get evaluated by a sleep specialist if someone has informed you that you snore loudly or gasp for air at night, or if you’re constantly tired during the day. Sleep apnea treatment from a professional is the best way, hands down, to control your symptoms.

So many cases of sleep apnea are diagnosed every year, but many more go untreated—so being able to recognize the symptoms, identify risk factors, and make changes as needed while seeking treatment can ensure that the condition doesn’t steal away your valuable nightly rest.

About the Practice

Our team here at Bethesda Center for Dental Sleep Medicine & TMJ Therapy has served the needs of patients in Bethesda and all across Maryland, offering a wide variety of proven sleep apnea solutions, including oral appliance therapy, combined therapy, and other options. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our office to set up an appointment with Dr. Greenbaum, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (301) 530-3600.