Busting 4 Myths About Sleep Apnea

At least 22 million Americans have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA); however, 80% of cases aren’t diagnosed. Although up to 9% of adults have the sleep disorder, there’s a lot of misinformation about the condition, contributing to the number of undiagnosed cases. Don’t let common sleep apnea myths place you at risk of potentially deadly complications. Here are the facts you need about 4 OSA rumors.

Myth #1: Sleep apnea is just snoring.

Fact: Sleep apnea causes breathing interruptions.

Loud, chronic snoring is a frequent symptom of OSA because both are caused by the narrowing of the upper airway. When the soft tissues in the back of the mouth or the tongue relax while sleeping, they can create an obstruction. As air passes over the soft tissues, they cause vibrations, resulting in snoring. As the airway continues to narrow, you can stop breathing potentially hundreds of times throughout the night. Each event can last from a few seconds to a minute or longer, interrupting your sleep cycle and depleting your body of oxygen. Your quality of life and health can be effected without any treatment.

Myth #2: Only older people are at risk.

Fact: Anyone can have sleep apnea.

OSA can affect anyone, no matter their age or gender. Although it is more common after 40, people of all ages can suffer from the breathing disorder, even children. Besides age, other factors increase your risk, such as obesity, smoking, and family history. 

Myth #3: A CPAP machine is the only treatment.

Fact: You have multiple options to treat sleep apnea.

A CPAP machine is the most traditional treatment for sleep apnea. A steady stream of air pressure is delivered through a mask worn over the mouth or nose to stop pauses in breathing. Although it is effective, it can be bothersome for some patients. As an alternative, many patients prefer an oral appliance. The custom-fit device repositions the lower jaw and tongue forward to keep their airway open. It’s a comfortable, convenient alternative for mild-to-moderate cases of sleep apnea.

Myth #4: Sleep apnea only affects men.

Fact: 45% of sleep apnea referrals are for women. 

Women aren’t immune to OSA, but they are less likely to be diagnosed because symptoms of the condition can be more subtle, like daily fatigue or depression. It’s more common to occur after menopause, which affects about 6% of women. 

Sleep Peacefully Tonight

If you have signs or risk factors for OSA, don’t risk your physical or mental health. Your dentist can provide the solution you need to breathe a sigh of relief. You’ll breathe better and sleep soundly with oral appliance therapy. 

About Dr. Josh Culver

Dr. Culver earned his dental degree at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry before continuing his education in many specialties, including dental implants, laser dentistry, and sleep apnea therapy. If you are interested in an oral appliance, choose an award-winning dentist. Contact our office today to request your consultation.