The Dangers of Sleep Apnea
Consistent, restful sleep is the secret to a happier, healthier life — benefiting your physical, mental, and emotional health. Untreated sleep apnea, on the other hand, can lead to numerous long-term issues, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Dementia/Alzheimer’s
- Depression
- Sexual dysfunction
- Cancer
Why Early Treatment Matters
Many of these risks develop gradually, which is part of why sleep apnea can go undiagnosed for years. The good news is that consistent treatment — whether CPAP or custom oral appliance therapy — can significantly reduce these risks and help you avoid more serious complications down the road. See our page on the benefits of sleep apnea treatment for a closer look at what improvement can look like.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
If you’re wondering whether you might be at risk, review our list of common sleep apnea symptoms, or learn more about how sleep apnea is diagnosed to understand the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Dangers of Sleep Apnea
How serious are the health risks of untreated sleep apnea?
They can be quite serious over time, including increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure, among other conditions.
Can sleep apnea really affect my mental health?
Yes, untreated sleep apnea has been linked to higher rates of depression and can significantly affect mood and cognitive function.
How quickly can these risks develop?
It varies by individual, but many of these risks build gradually over months or years of untreated sleep apnea, which is why early treatment matters.
Can treating my sleep apnea reverse these risks?
Consistent treatment can significantly reduce many of these risks, though the degree of improvement depends on your individual health and how long the condition went untreated.
Is weight related to these risks?
Weight can be both a risk factor for sleep apnea and a health concern in its own right, and the two often compound one another if left unaddressed.
How do I get evaluated for sleep apnea before it becomes a bigger risk?
Call (386) 253-0115 or request an appointment online with our Daytona Beach, FL team to get started.
