An article recently released by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine has revealed that drivers who suffer from drowsiness during the day are almost as dangerous on our roads as drunks.
Drivers who suffer from drowsiness are 15 times more likely to be involved in a deadly motor vehicle accident. With drowsiness a common symptom of sleep apnea, we could not be more concerned for the health and safety of our friends, family and patients.
Find out more about drowsy driving here:
Have you heard of sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder that happens for some while they sleep. Often linked with snoring and other symptoms, sleep apnea is caused by the airways collapsing throughout the night. The pauses can range between 10 seconds to over a minute and may occur hundreds of times in one single evening.
When the collapse occurs, the brain forces you to wake and breathe (although you may not realise you’ve woken). Because you have had an inconsistent rest and interrupted sleeping patterns, during the hours of the day you’ll likely feel sleepy and even agitated.
Is fatigue affecting you on a daily basis?
Sleep deprivation and drowsiness due to sleep apnea is not only dangerous to you but also to all those around you. Left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can also lead to a range of other harmful conditions such as:
- Asthma
- Acid reflux
- Weight gain
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
Oral appliance therapy available at Elite Dental
Do you think you may be a victim of sleep apnea? Here at Elite Dental of Staten Island, Dr Acker offers patients treatment for sleep apnea and snoring. Find out more about our website dedicated to sleep apnea and snoring here: