Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects millions of people worldwide. What may seem like only snoring and a minor social annoyance, research shows that excessive snoring can be hazardous to your health.
People who suffer from OSA consistently may unknowingly stop breathing during their sleep due to a partial or even complete obstruction of their airway – the lack of oxygen can last for a minute or even longer, many times each evening.
Most people eventually will wake up during an airway obstruction; but feeling exhausted during the day, experiencing headaches and having high blood pressure are all signs that your snoring may be taking a toll on your body.
Researchers believe that individuals over the age of 35 are at a higher risk.
A recent case study published by Eastern Virginia Medical School’s Division of Sleep Medicine in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine concludes that wearing a simple chinstrap while you sleep can be an effective treatment for OSA.
By supporting the lower jaw and tongue, the chinstrap prevents the airway from being obstructed.
If you suffer from excessive snoring, researchers suggest seeking medical advice, which will determine the severity of your apnea.
OSA has also been linked to other health problems including:
- Acid reflux
- Frequent nighttime urination
- Memory loss
- Stroke
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Heart attack