A new study published in the journal Sleep has found that people who sleep less than five hours a night are at a higher risk of developing certain diseases. The study analyzed data from over 2,000 participants and found that those who slept less than five hours a night had a higher risk of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, as well as higher levels of inflammation in the body.
One of the main reasons that insufficient sleep is linked to these diseases is because it can disrupt the body’s natural hormone production. For example, sleep deprivation can lead to increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can increase blood pressure and inflammation. It can also affect the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of developing diabetes.
In addition to the physical impacts of sleep deprivation, it can also have negative effects on mental health. People who sleep less than five hours a night are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Overall, the findings of this study highlight the importance of getting enough sleep for overall health and well-being. If you have trouble sleeping, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about potential underlying causes and ways to improve your sleep habits. Some simple strategies that may help include setting a regular bedtime, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. By prioritizing sleep, you can help lower your risk of developing these diseases and improve your overall health.
If you aren’t getting the sleep you need because of sleep apnea, we can help. CPAP machines are no longer the only option to find relief from symptoms and to get a good night’s sleep.
Oral appliances are a type of treatment that can be used to help treat sleep apnea. These devices are worn in the mouth and work by repositioning the jaw to help keep the airway open during sleep.
There are several types of oral appliances available, including mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue retaining devices (TRDs). MADs work by bringing the lower jaw forward, which helps to keep the airway open and prevent the muscles in the back of the throat from collapsing. TRDs, on the other hand, work by holding the tongue in a forward position, which can also help keep the airway open.
Oral appliances are typically made of plastic or acrylic and are custom-fit to the individual wearer. They are usually easy to wear and adjust, and can be removed for cleaning and maintenance.
Oral appliances are generally considered a safe and effective treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea. They can be especially useful for people who cannot tolerate or do not respond well to other treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines.
If you are considering using an oral appliance to treat your sleep apnea, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider who is trained in the use of these devices. They can help determine if an oral appliance is appropriate for you and work with you to select the right device and ensure that it is properly fitted and adjusted. By using an oral appliance as part of your sleep apnea treatment plan, you can improve your sleep quality and reduce your risk of health problems related to sleep apnea. For more information on oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea, or to schedule an appointment, call us at 858-538-8300.
