In 2009, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that life expectancy hit an all-time high with the average population living at about 78 years and two months, a two-month increase as compared to 2008, with women having a longer life expectancy than men of 80.6 years and 75.7 years respectively, and an all-time low 10th consecutive yearly decrease of Americans dying. This could be due to vaccinations, public health measures against smoking, better overall medical treatment for life span improvements, and sleep medicine as also shown in a decrease in deaths from heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes that is commonly linked to sleep apnea. Is the increase in awareness and treatment of sleep apnea really helping Americans to live longer? Studies show that people with untreated severe sleep apnea are twice likely to die, and moderate cases increase one’s risk of death by 17%. Therefore, the diagnosis and treatment of
sleep apnea is critical to prevent deaths, especially since sleep apnea causes pauses in breathing and puts strain on the heart, and increases one’s risk of heart disease, heart attack, and congestive heart failure. Sleep apnea treatments can also slow the development of other pre-existing conditions such
as diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease for cognitive decline that can be caused by sleep disorders and are not limited to sleep apnea.
The average life expectancy in the United States is still the lowest among developed nations, and the National Research Council accounts for this due to heavy smoking and obesity which is a primary risk factor for heart disease, diabetes and sleep apnea. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of sleep apnea such as snoring, daytime sleepiness, irritability, and low energy, it is important to consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis early and the underlying issue of the cause, it is important to consult the doctor to confirm the diagnosis early and the underlying issue of the cause of sleep apnea. Depending on your financial situation and sleep apnea condition, the doctor will work through with you the type of sleep apnea test in the comfort of your home or an in-lab sleep test to determine the precise nature of your condition to avoid any long-term issues. Besides most insurance companies now pay for sleep testing and CPAP OSA treatment, early intervention with a sleep apnea device can stop snoring or one can a sleep apnea CPAP trial from the equipment supplier or distributor that distributes a range of sleep apnea machines and CPAP supplies for a better quality of sleep and healthier overall well-being.
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