Title: Snoring Can Be a Silent Sign of Dangerous Sleep Disorder, Warns Sleep Scientist
Author: adiaznyp
Published: Oct. 6, 2023, 8:16 p.m. ET
In a recent revelation, a sleep scientist has highlighted a commonly overlooked symptom of a dangerous sleep disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Dr. Joachim Behar, a renowned sleep scientist, has urged Americans to pay closer attention to the quality of their nightly sleep and seek medical attention if they experience certain symptoms.
OSA occurs when the throat muscles relax and block the airway repeatedly during sleep. Despite being extremely common and affecting millions of people worldwide, many individuals suffering from OSA remain silent due to the difficulty in detecting symptoms that occur during sleep.
Dr. Behar explained that when left untreated or misdiagnosed, OSA becomes a risk factor for serious conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.
Common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include excessive daytime sleepiness, episodes of stopped breathing during sleep, waking during the night and gasping or choking, dry mouth or sore throat in the morning, morning headaches, trouble focusing during the day, mood changes, high blood pressure, decreased interest in sex, and the most commonly overlooked symptom – snoring.
While snoring may seem like a minor nuisance, it could actually indicate the presence of potentially dangerous sleep apnea. Dr. Behar emphasized that simple lifestyle changes such as losing weight, sleeping on your side, and avoiding alcohol and sleeping pills can help reduce symptoms of OSA. In more severe cases, doctors may prescribe a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which is considered the most effective treatment.
The expert warned that sleep deprivation is a growing public health concern as many individuals fail to get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night. In fact, a study published in the journal JAMA Network Open revealed that nearly half of American adults experience sleep deprivation.
Factors such as long working hours, excessive use of electronic devices, poor diet, caffeine and alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and increased stress levels contribute to the lack of healthy sleep hygiene.
Consistent and quality sleep is essential for physical health, cognitive abilities, mental health, and even the aging process. Recent research found that having a consistent sleep schedule can help slow down the biological aging process. People with inconsistent sleep schedules had a biological age that was nine months older compared to those with a consistent schedule.
Dr. Behar emphasized the importance of prioritizing sleep as much as proper nutrition and exercise for overall well-being.
In light of these findings, experts have highlighted the rising public health concern posed by sleep disorders in the United States. It is crucial for individuals to recognize the signs of sleep apnea, such as snoring, and seek appropriate medical attention to avoid potential complications.
As the understanding of the impact of sleep on health continues to grow, it is imperative for individuals to prioritize their sleep and ensure they are getting sufficient and consistent restorative rest each night.