Sleep Apnea and Your Health: Understanding the Connection

Did you know that 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, and over 100 million Americans have diabetes? These two conditions can significantly impact your daily life and overall health, often in ways that go unrecognized. But what’s the connection between sleep apnea and diabetes?

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Diabetes

Research shows that having sleep apnea can increase the risk of developing diabetes, and as many as 83% of patients with type 2 diabetes may have undiagnosed sleep apnea. This creates a vicious cycle:

  • Poor quality sleep raises blood sugar levels.

  • Elevated blood sugar levels contribute to restlessness at night and overeating, worsening the problem.

This cycle can lead to serious complications, including damage to vital organs like your:

  • Eyes (increasing the risk of glaucoma),

  • Kidneys,

  • Heart.

How Your Dentist Can Help

Addressing sleep apnea starts with understanding your sleep habits. If you frequently feel tired or fatigued, it’s important to discuss this with your dentist. For diabetic patients, a sleep assessment may reveal whether sleep apnea is contributing to your condition.

The good news? At Concierge Dentistry, we can conduct a simple and comfortable at-home sleep test to assess your sleep quality and uncover potential issues. Proper diagnosis and treatment can make a world of difference in improving your health and quality of life.

Take the First Step

Don’t let undiagnosed sleep apnea or poor sleep quality affect your health. Schedule a consultation with us today to explore how we can help you achieve better sleep, improved health, and a more vibrant life.