LEXINGTON, Ky. — Each June, Men’s Health Month is recognized nationally – a time when men are encouraged to take charge of their health and address preventable health concerns. During this awareness month, CHI Saint Joseph Health urges men in the Commonwealth to look at a serious condition more likely to impact males – sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, when someone stops breathing for more than 10 seconds while sleeping. This results in lower blood oxygen levels, which can cause frequent awakenings at night, leading to drowsiness during the day. Sleep apnea can have a tremendous impact and be very dangerous, as the condition can lead to life-threatening conditions like heart damage or heart failure.
Men are more likely to experience sleep apnea than women, which can be due to many reasons, including the anatomy of male airways, breathing control, and hormones, among other factors. The Mayo Clinic reports men are two to three times more likely to have this condition than women.
“Proper sleep is vital to overall health and well-being,” said Pell Ann Wardrop, MD, medical director of CHI Saint Joseph Health – Sleep Care Center at Saint Joseph East. “How we sleep profoundly impacts our productivity, interaction with others, and overall quality of life. As sleep problems compound, it can put added pressure on a person’s heart, which is dangerous. So we encourage men to note sleep problems and let their primary care provider know so they can get the help they need to improve sleep and reduce potential serious health issues.”
The condition may seem like a minor annoyance to some, but this medical issue can have devastating health consequences, impacting daily performance, relationships and overall well-being. This condition can be the culprit for excessive daytime sleepiness, but the long-term problems go much deeper. They can become life-threatening if overlooked and left untreated, increasing the risk for heart attacks, heart failure, stroke, coronary artery disease, diabetes, reflux and depression.
“Excessive sleepiness is your first clue to seek help,” said Dr. Wardrop. “Has your spouse or partner complained about your loud snoring? Do you find yourself waking up several times a night? If your answer is yes, it’s time to address your sleep quality in search of leading a healthier and happier life.”
During Men’s Health Month, men must improve their overall health. Make an appointment for yourself or a loved one with a primary care provider to discuss the next steps and learn more about the benefits of visiting a sleep clinic. To find a healthcare provider near you, visit https://www.chisaintjosephhealth.org/find-a-provider/.
