Obstructive sleep apnea affects all age groups – from children to the elderly.  A study recently published in the journal CHEST found that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may have more of an effect on the health of those who develop the condition during middle age as opposed to those who develop the problem when they are older.

The study looked at two groups of patients – one group that developed OSA before they turned 50 and another group that developed OSA at 60 years of age or older.

The researchers looked at sleep study results, daytime sleepiness and treatment outcomes.

The results showed that the group that developed OSA before age 50 had more underlying cardiovascular disorders and had a higher body mass index – they gained weight.  Weight gain and heart disease are common results of untreated obstructive sleep apnea.  The older group also required lower CPAP levels for treatment and reported less daytime sleepiness.

Whatever the age, OSA is a dangerous disease that requires treatment.  Unfortunately, most patients cannot tolerate the most commonly prescribed treatment – the CPAP machine.   Oral appliance therapy for OSA, on the other hand, is effective and has been proven to have a much higher level of patient compliance over the long run. Oral appliance therapy involves a custom fitted device that is worn while you sleep.  The appliance is designed to keep your airway open and stable, allowing you a restful, refreshing night’s sleep.

If you suspect you may be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, snore loudly at night or have already been diagnosed and are seeking an effective treatment contact your Gahanna, Ohio dental sleep medicine practitioner, Dr. Mark Levy at 614-454-3488 to schedule your appointment to find out if oral appliance therapy is right for you.