More than 18 million American adults have sleep apnea, but many more let it go untreated. Last week, we discussed what happens when OSA goes untreated on our blog, and the health concerns that can arise if
it is left untreated. Like many other health issues, the risks associated with this sleep problem significantly decrease when it is treated.
There are multiple ways to treat sleep apnea, which we outlined a couple weeks ago. After treating your OSA, you can gain so much more than a better night’s sleep. Here are some of the benefits of treating sleep apnea:
- Increased overall health – By treating your sleep apnea, you can help decrease your risk for many other major health concerns, such as an increased risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and depression, among others.
- Increased libido – Sleep deprivation, a result from not sleeping well at night, can actually lower testosterone levels by 15 to 30 percent. In a study of men under the age of sixty who were receiving treatment for OSA, 41 percent reported having an improved sexual function, satisfaction and decreased side effects of erectile dysfunction (ED).
- A more youthful looking face – In an interesting twist, what many consider an unflattering OSA treatment could actually make you look more attractive. People with sleep apnea who regularly (that’s the key here) use their CPAP machines for two months noticed a reduction in redness across the face, dark circles and wrinkles. And, really, who doesn’t want to look a little younger?
- Increased energy – Sleep is a cornerstone of how our bodies fuel up to get through each day, not to mention getting through workouts. When you are finally sleeping well at night and achieving that seven to nine hour mark, you would be amazed at how refreshed, energized and invigorated you’ll feel. In fact, many CPAP users reported increased energy levels only after short period of starting CPAP therapy.
By not treating your sleep apnea, you could also be putting yourself at risk for other serious health issues. If you know someone who could benefit from a consultation with a sleep doctor, we’d love to talk. Contact Iowa Sleep at 855.346.8899 or via our online form and Rediscover a Great Night's Sleep.