Empire State Today

Michelle Sands, Sleep Apnea Director and Registered Dental Hygienist at Silent Night Therapy, stated that sleep apnea is a condition that can be life-threatening.

"Sleep apnea is a life-threatening condition," said Michelle Sands, Silent Night Therapy’s Sleep Apnea Director.

Sleep apnea is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, approximately 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, with 80% of the cases of moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea going undiagnosed. This disorder, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, can lead to severe health issues if left untreated. The lack of oxygen caused by these interruptions can have widespread effects on the body, making it a significant public health concern.

"Sleep apnea is a life-threatening condition because it affects your breathing. If your body doesn't get enough oxygen while you're sleeping, it impacts everything in your life. Your body is not properly metabolizing at night and recovering. Low oxygen levels can also be linked to difficulties in controlling high blood pressure and diabetes," said Sands. She further explained the increased risk of memory issues for diabetes patients experiencing sleep disturbances and the potential elevation of Alzheimer's dementia risk in older patients. In children, insufficient rest due to sleep apnea can contribute to ADHD and behavioral problems.

Research published in the journal "Hypertension" has shown that individuals with untreated sleep apnea are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. This is because the repeated drops in oxygen levels signal the brain to increase blood pressure in an attempt to improve oxygen flow. Over time, this can lead to chronic hypertension, which is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Consequently, managing sleep apnea effectively can play a crucial role in preventing these associated health problems.

Sands emphasized the importance of screening for sleep disorders as a standard practice among healthcare providers. "Investigating sleep patterns has become a crucial step in identifying underlying issues. Screening patients for sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnea, has become standard practice for healthcare providers. This proactive approach is vital as sleep disorders can exacerbate existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, as well as contribute to depression and anxiety," she said. By prioritizing sleep evaluation before initiating treatment, healthcare providers can optimize patient care and mitigate the adverse effects of untreated sleep disorders.

According to the Silent Night Therapy website, Sands entered the practice in 2011, bringing with her over 25 years of experience as a Registered Dental Hygienist. Currently, she holds the position of Sleep Apnea Director. She is recognized for her commitment to help and listen, prioritizing patient care over any product sales and recognizing that everyone has a unique story.