Sleep apnea affects 30 million Americans, many undiagnosed

Many people with loud snoring should not ignore this issue. They may be experiencing sleep apnea, a serious condition that is often untreated. Dr. Daron Kahn, a sleep specialist, emphasizes the importance of getting help. March is Sleep Apnea Awareness Month, a good time to highlight this common problem. Sleep apnea affects about 30 million Americans, but only 6 million are diagnosed. Symptoms include loud snoring, feeling tired after a full night’s sleep, and gasping or choking during the night. These breathing pauses can last from 10 to 30 seconds, sometimes happening over 100 times a night. Obstructive sleep apnea, the most common type, occurs when throat muscles relax too much and block airflow. Factors like weight, genetics, and anatomy can increase the risk. Other symptoms can include teeth grinding, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues. These may include cardiovascular problems like hypertension and heart failure. The lack of oxygen during sleep can harm organs and trigger inflammation, leading to diabetes and other health concerns. To diagnose sleep apnea, doctors perform a sleep study, either in a lab or at home. Several treatments are available. Lifestyle changes, like losing weight and quitting smoking, can help. Devices like CPAP or BiPAP keep airways open during sleep, while oral appliances can help shift the jaw forward to ease breathing. Seeking help is important, especially for those with persistent snoring, daytime fatigue, or heart issues. Treatment can greatly improve quality of life, helping people feel more alert and reduce reliance on caffeine.