Snoring is not a sign of good health. It’s associated with several severe conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. But snoring may also result from more benign causes such as allergies or sinus congestion, so if you have chronic snoring, your Texas doctor will want to rule out these possibilities before assuming that your snoring is indicative of a more severe problem. An excellent snoring Austin specialist will treat the condition before things worsen. Below are the health risks associated with snoring.
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Chronic Headaches
One of the more common complaints from people who live with chronic snorers is headaches. The sound of snoring can be so loud and disruptive that it causes sleep deprivation, which can lead to tension headaches. If you’re constantly waking up with a headache, it might be time to ask your partner to see a doctor about their snoring.
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High Blood Pressure
Chronic snoring is also linked to high blood pressure, leading to heart disease and stroke. When you snore, your breathing is interrupted numerous times throughout the night. This causes your blood pressure to rise each time you stop breathing, putting strain on your heart and increasing your risk for hypertension. If you have hypertension, you may be prescribed a sleep apnea machine to help you breathe more continuously throughout the night and lower your blood pressure.
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Increased Risk of Diabetes
Snoring is also associated with an increased risk of diabetes. When you snore, your body can’t get the oxygen it needs. This can lead to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. If you have diabetes, you’re at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke, so it’s essential to keep your blood sugar under control.
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Arrhythmias
Snoring can also lead to irregular heartbeats. When your breathing is interrupted during sleep, your heart has to work harder to pump blood. It can cause your heart to beat irregularly and put you at risk for serious cardiovascular problems. If you have an arrhythmia, you may be prescribed a sleep apnea machine to help you breathe more continuously throughout the night and keep your heart rate regular.
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GERD
People who snore are also more likely to suffer from GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease. This is a condition in which stomach acid rises into the throat, causing heartburn and other uncomfortable symptoms. If you have GERD, you may be prescribed medication to help control the symptoms.
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Stroke
Snoring is also a risk factor for stroke. When you snore, your breathing is interrupted numerous times throughout the night. It causes your blood pressure to rise each time you stop breathing, putting strain on your heart and increasing your risk for stroke. If you have a family history of stroke or are at risk for stroke, you should talk to your doctor about your snoring.
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Dementia
Dementia is a condition that affects the brain and causes changes in thinking, behavior, and mood. It can interfere with a person’s ability to carry out everyday activities and can be very frustrating for those with dementia and their loved ones. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how to cope with dementia, but research has shown that people who snore are more likely to develop dementia.
If you or your partner snores, it’s essential to see a doctor to determine if an underlying health condition is causing the snoring. Left untreated, chronic snoring can lead to serious health problems. So if you’re looking for ways to reduce your risk of health problems, improving your sleep habits is an excellent place to start.
