Sleep is important. Few people would argue that it’s not.
Given that fact, however, it might be surprising that an estimated 1 in 15 people suffer from sleep apnea in the U.S. and 85% of these cases remain undiagnosed.
If a good night’s rest is essential for daily productivity, avoiding heart disease, and maintaining your mental health, then why isn’t sleep health considered more seriously by the traditional healthcare system?
And when was the last time your doctor tested how well you sleep?
What is Sleep Apnea?
The John Hopkins Sleep Disorders Center explains sleep apnea as:
“what happens when upper airway muscles relax during sleep and pinch off the airway, which prevents you from getting enough air. Your breathing may pause for 10 seconds or more at a time, until your reflexes kick in and you start breathing again.”
And out of the roughly 22 million Americans who suffer from sleep apnea, the majority aren’t even aware of their condition.
Unfortunately, the effects of untreated sleep apnea can have serious and life-altering consequences. Below, discover how poor sleep could be damaging your health physically and mentally. And learn how a sleep apnea test at home through EDISON BIO can help you take control of your wellness.
Sleep Apnea Effects on Your Physical Health
Despite the obvious effect of not getting a restful night’s sleep, sleep apnea has been linked to an increased chance of major health problems like type 2 diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes.
In fact, of the 92 million people who have heart disease in the United States, 60% of them also suffer from sleep apnea. This is due in part to the enormous strain that is placed on the heart when breathing suddenly stops during sleep.
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, sleep apnea can also increase your risk for developing:
- asthma
- chronic kidney disease
- metabolic disorders
- eye disorders
- atrial fibrillation
- pregnancy complications and more
So not only can sleep apnea majorly impact your quality of life, but it can also be life-threatening.
Mental Health
In addition to affecting your body physically, sleep apnea also can decrease your cognitive functioning and effect your mental health.
Because breathing pauses inhibit you from staying asleep continuously throughout the night, people with sleep apnea often suffer from fatigue and mood swings during the day. Additionally, studies have linked sleep apnea to decreases in memory, concentration, and attention spans.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information even found that “individuals with sleep apnea have increased risk for psychopathology, including suicidal ideation.” and that “efforts to address the mental health care needs of those with sleep apnea are needed.”
Maintaining healthy sleep is critical for cognitive performance and suffering from sleep apnea can significantly effect your brain health and mental wellbeing.
Are You at Risk for Sleep Apnea?
While sleep apnea can occur at any age, the older you are the higher your risk is. Obesity, smoking, and hormonal abnormalities also increase your likelihood for developing sleep apnea. Additionally, scientists are beginning to discover a connection between sleep apnea and certain genetics.
But investing in preventive health strategies can help you minimize these risks.
Common Symptoms
As mentioned previously, sleep apnea usually goes undiagnosed. Because of this, it’s useful to know some of the symptoms to look out for. The NIH has put together a list of most common sleep apnea symptoms which includes:
- Sleepiness and fatigue during the day
- Headaches when waking
- Decreased attention, concentration, and memory
However, the very best way to diagnose sleep apnea is through clinical analysis from a sleep apnea test at home.
A Sleep Apnea Test at Home With EDISON BIO
Unfortunately, the traditional health system in the United States fails to prioritize sleep health. Historically, patients have had to travel to and spend the night at special sleep disorder centers to receive proper treatment. However, this process is neither convenient nor comfortable.
That’s why the leaders in innovative medical technology have developed at home sleep apnea tests as a solution. Through the use of small wearable devices, patients can analyze their sleep health from the comfort of their own homes.
At home sleep apnea tests generally measure things like:
- Heart rate
- Nasal airflow
- Breathing patterns
- Body positioning
With this data, doctors can then determine whether you do suffer from sleep apnea and recommend treatment options if necessary.
Here at EDISON BIO, we included clinically-approved sleep analysis tests in all of our Advanced Executive Health Exams. With these tests, our Members can learn about their sleep habits, discover if they suffer from issues such as sleep apnea, and be equipped with the tools necessary to treat the problems they might be facing.
Improve Your Sleep With Comprehensive Care
Traditional healthcare systems have failed at offering patients truly comprehensive and personalized care. That’s why EDISON BIO prioritizes preventive care through using the most innovative technologies available.
Don’t settle for providers that only address part of your health story. Invest in EDISON BIO to receive a holistic picture of your body mentally and physically—including understanding your sleep health. You can start increasing your performance and longevity by becoming a Member today.
About EDISON BIO
Most of us worry about our health. EDISON BIO advanced, comprehensive, and convenient health screening uncovers hidden disease and health challenges early. You’ll be confident about your health and primed to perform at your highest potential.