Obstructive sleep apnea can really wreak havoc on your overall body health. It can cause exhaustion, lethargy and depression, and worsen many conditions including diabetes, cancer, and heart conditions like atrial fibrillation. But now, a new study has revealed yet another way obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can harm your health.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition occurs during sleep, when the patient is in the lying position and their airway becomes obstructed by their throat muscles. Though it is more common in men over the age of 40 who are obese, it can occur in other demographics, including women.
In the newest OSA study, women were found to have a higher risk of spine fracture than those who did not have obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, they had almost twofold higher risk of spine fracture, according to the study, which was published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.
While it’s unclear whether or not the study focused on treated or untreated obstructive sleep apnea, it is always a good idea to seek treatment for sleep apnea, especially knowing how dangerous and even deadly the sleep disorder can be.
Dr. Mingus has sleep apnea treatment options available that many patients find more comfortable and effective than traditional CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy. While CPAP can work, many find the mask uncomfortable and cleaning the tubing difficult and ineffective. The machinery can also often be complicated to operate.
That’s why Dr. Mingus offers sleep orthotics to his patients. Sleep orthotics are simple to use. Custom fit to your individual mouth, sleep orthotics position the jaw in such a way that the airway is propped open naturally, without forced air like with CPAP. Custom orthotics are also easier to maintain. They only need to be cleaned in a manner similar to cleaning a retainer. Just soak them in a retainer or denture cleaner overnight.
If you suffer from sleep apnea, or believe you might, speak to Dr. Mingus about your options. There is no need to continue to suffer from the side effects of sleep apnea and put your health at risk. To schedule a consultation, please contact Dr. Mingus at 541-382-6565.