We know that inadequate or poor quality sleep makes us feel miserable the next day but it can also be dangerous. Sadly, the train crash that just occurred in New York seems to be linked to sleep, as so many other accidents like this have been. It now appears that a train operator had dozed off before reaching the deadly curve in the track.

Driving while drowsy is a serious and dangerous issue in this country. A poll by the National Sleep Foundation found that 60% of people admitted to driving while sleepy in the past year and an astounding 37% admitted to nodding off behind the wheel! This is not limited to automobile drivers. Airline pilots, train operators and truckers have all dozed off while working, sometimes with deadly consequences.

Why are people so sleepy at work and behind the wheel? One reason is the epidemic of obstructive sleep apnea cases. As our population has gained weight over the years, we have also gained a lot more cases of obstructive sleep apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea screening is becoming mandatory in certain jobs where public safety is at stake. Long distance truckers and airline pilots get screenings based on their BMI. But overweight people are not the only ones with sleep apnea. Here are a few signs to look for:

• Loud snoring and gasping noises during sleep
• Large neck size
• Daytime sleepiness
• Large tongue or tonsils

The dangers of untreated sleep apnea go further than increased risk of accidents. Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, depression, chronic pain and many other health problems.

Find out more by contacting Columbus sleep apnea dentist Dr. Mark Levy today at 614-915-0165 to schedule your consultation.