Consequences of Sleep Deprivation

Serving Patients in the areas of Grand Rapids, Holland, and Big Rapids MI

In a fast-paced society, it is no wonder many of us struggle to achieve enough sleep every night. However, for some people, their sleep deprivation may not be due to a busy schedule and late nights, but a more serious health problem known as obstructive sleep apnea. We all need adequate sleep each night to function every day and live healthier lives. Your sleep apnea dentists in Grand Rapids want you to know about the consequences of sleep deprivation, and what you can do about it.

Health Dangers

Untreated sleep apnea does more than just make you fatigued all of the time. It actually has health ramifications that can be detrimental. You see, when sleep apnea occurs, the body is not getting enough oxygen, which is essential for survival. Instead, the body may respond negatively. Health dangers of untreated sleep apnea include an increased risk of stroke, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and you could even be more likely to be involved in a car accident. In fact, studies show that driving on five hours or less of sleep is like driving with a blood alcohol level of .05%. In case you are unaware, the legal blood alcohol concentration limit in the state of Michigan is .08%; so a .05% isn’t far off!

Effects of Sleep Loss Accumulate

You may not realize it, but the consequences of receiving five or fewer hours of sleep each night, even for just for a night or two, can really add up. Getting six hours or fewer of sleep every night increases your risk of a heart attack by 50 percent! It has been noted that the average American receives about seven hours or less of sleep every night, while many of us require eight hours to feel rested and rejuvenated.

Your Sleep Deprivation Could be Caused by Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when the airway has an obstruction or is completely cut-off, which decreases the amount of oxygen to the body and the brain. It occurs while sleeping, and these temporary pauses in breathing may happen as many as a dozen to hundreds of times a night! There is no wonder why a person with sleep apnea may experience sleep deprivation. Get a sleep apnea evaluation by a Grand Rapids sleep apnea dentist today. At TMJ & Sleep Disorders of Michigan, our non-invasive treatment of using a custom-made oral appliance can help provide you with the restful sleep you have been searching for.

Sleep Apnea Evaluation in Grand Rapids

Millions of Americans have untreated sleep apnea and don’t even know that they have it. If you experience chronic fatigue, wake up with a dry mouth, sore throat, or frequent headaches, it could be due to sleep apnea. Get help today by seeking an evaluation with us at TMJ & Sleep Disorders of Michigan. We offer treatment for sleep apnea that does not involve the use of a CPAP machine. To schedule a consultation or to learn more, please call our office at (616) 458-0631.

TMJ & Sleep Disorders of Michigan welcomes patients of Big Rapids, Grand Rapids, and Holland.