Sleep apnea is a common concern that affects many people. It is a health disorder in which breathing stops while sleeping repeatedly. Snoring, excessive sleeping, and breathlessness are the common issues that arise during sleep apnea.

As per the statistics shared by CBC, According to Statistics Canada, one in three Canadians sleeps less than the seven to nine hours a night that is considered ideal.

But, have you ever wondered what happens when you have Sleep Apnea No Snoring? How does this affect your health?

Well, to address this concern, this blog will discuss the impact of sleep apnea without snoring on your health.

Understanding Sleep Apnea Without Snoring

Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing stops and starts again while you're asleep. This happens because your throat's airway gets blocked or collapses temporarily. Your brain notices that you're not getting enough oxygen, so it wakes you up briefly to fix it. This can happen many times during the night, which disrupts your sleep and can lead to different health problems.

Most people think that snoring always comes with sleep apnea, but that's not true. Some people have sleep apnea without snoring. It's sometimes called "silent" or "non-snoring" sleep apnea. This type of sleep apnea can be just as harmful, and it often goes unnoticed. So, it's crucial to learn about its effects on your health.

The Health Implications of Silent Sleep Apnea

  • Feeling Tired During the Day: When you have Sleep Apnea No Snoring, you still wake up a lot during the night, even if you don't realize it. This makes you feel tired during the day.
  • Trouble Thinking Clearly: Sleep apnea, whether with or without snoring, can make it hard for you to think clearly. You might have trouble remembering things or concentrating on tasks.
  • Mood Changes: Sleep apnea can affect your mood. It can make you feel sad, anxious, or easily irritated. Silent sleep apnea can cause these mood changes too.
  • Heart and Blood Pressure Problems: Sleep apnea, no matter if you snore or not, can put extra stress on your heart and blood vessels. It can lead to high blood pressure, heart issues, and even an increased risk of stroke.
  • Weight and Blood Sugar Issues: Silent sleep apnea can make it harder for you to lose weight, and it might make your body less sensitive to insulin, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.
  • Concerns for Your Teeth: Sleep apnea, even without snoring, can affect your dental health. It may cause teeth grinding and jaw joint problems. If you're in Vernon, BC, you can get help for these issues at Aberdeen Dental Centre.

Why Does Sleep Apnea Occur Without Snoring?

Sleep apnea usually happens because your throat muscles relax excessively during sleep, causing a temporary blockage of your airway. This blockage can result in the classic sound of snoring as air squeezes through the narrowed passage. However, not everyone snores loudly, even when they have sleep apnea.

Several factors contribute to this variation:

  • Throat Anatomy: People with certain throat structures may be more prone to silent sleep apnea. Narrow airways can make breathing more difficult during sleep, leading to apneas (pauses in breathing) without the accompanying noise.
  • Sleep Position: Sleep apnea is often position-dependent. Some individuals only experience apneas when sleeping in specific positions. For example, sleeping on your back can make the tongue and soft palate collapse to the back of your throat, blocking the airway.
  • Weight: Excess weight, especially around the neck, can increase the risk of sleep apnea. Fat deposits can press against the airway, making it more likely to collapse.
  • Alcohol and Sedatives: Consuming alcohol or sedatives before bedtime can relax your throat muscles further, increasing the chances of experiencing sleep apnea without snoring.

Who Is at Risk for Silent Sleep Apnea?

Anyone can develop sleep apnea, but some factors increase your risk:

  • Family History: If your family members have sleep apnea, you may be genetically predisposed to it.
  • Age: Sleep apnea becomes more common as you get older.
  • Gender: Men are more likely to develop sleep apnea than women, although the risk increases in women after menopause.
  • Smoking: Smoking can increase inflammation and fluid retention in your upper airway, making sleep apnea more likely.
  • Nasal Congestion: If you have difficulty breathing through your nose due to allergies or other issues, you may be at a higher risk.

Diagnosing Silent Sleep Apnea

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea No Snoring can be challenging, as it's not as obvious as the snoring type. Your doctor may recommend a sleep study, either at a sleep center or using a home sleep test. During the study, various factors, including your breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels, are monitored while you sleep. This will help determine the severity of your condition.

Treatment Options for Silent Sleep Apnea

The good news is that sleep apnea, whether with or without snoring, can often be managed effectively. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of your condition and your overall health:

  • Lifestyle Changes: In mild cases, lifestyle changes may be sufficient. This can include weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and altering your sleeping position.
  • Oral Appliances: These dental devices, custom-made by professionals like those at Aberdeen Dental Centre in Vernon, BC, can help reposition your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open.
  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): For moderate to severe sleep apnea, a CPAP machine delivers a continuous stream of air to prevent airway collapse.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural issues in your airway.

Conclusion

In Vernon, BC, as well as everywhere else, understanding the impact of sleep apnea without snoring is essential for maintaining good health. Even if you don't snore loudly, you can still have sleep apnea, and it can lead to various health problems. If you suspect you have it, don't hesitate to seek professional advice and explore treatment options. Remember, a good night's sleep is crucial for your overall well-being, so don't ignore sleep apnea, whether it comes with snoring or not. By taking steps to address it, you can improve your quality of life and health.