As you get older, the more likely you are to develop health complications (unless you take proper care of yourself and pre-existing conditions). A recent article on Forbes, took at look at sleep apnea and how it negatively affects older adults. Chronic poor sleep and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in anyone, especially older adults, can be fatal. OSA can hurt hearts–literally–because it increases your risk of dying from heart disease.
The Dangers of Sleep Apnea
There are numerous studies out there that showcase just how deadly sleep apnea can be without treatment. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) created the acronym “HEARTS” to help you remember the severity of sleep apnea:
- H – Heart failure
- E – Elevated blood pressure
- A – Atrial fibrillation
- R – Resistant hypertension
- T – Type 2 diabetes
- S – Stroke
With millions of Americans suffering from sleep apnea and going undiagnosed, it is crucial that we continue to raise awareness for the dangers of sleep apnea.
By understanding the risks, we hope you will visit Craniofacial Pain & Dental Sleep Center of Georgia for more information and further care.