New Year 2015 is coming up—which means that you’re probably already compiling your list of behaviors that you want to change in the coming year. But what if your New Year’s resolution was a single action that could lead to you feeling more energetic and alert, improving your memory, decreasing your risk for heart disease and other serious conditions, and being able to enjoy a good night’s sleep? That resolution is having a sleep study to test for sleep apnea—and 2015 is the time to finally get the sleep you deserve.
Why the odds are that you should be tested
Bring up the subject of sleep apnea with someone, and you’ll be surprised how frequently they mention a personal connection to the disorder, such as, “Oh, my spouse has sleep apnea!” or “My doctor says I should be tested for that.” Given the high prevalence of sleep apnea, this isn’t surprising.
Over 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. That’s one in fifteen people. Think about that for a moment: that means that almost everyone in the United States knows at least one person with sleep apnea. That’s a big number! Plus, the risk of sleep apnea increases with age. It is estimated that 1 in 5 U.S. adults has sleep apnea.
However, the number of people who know that they have sleep apnea is much smaller. An estimated 80% of people with moderate to severe sleep apnea are undiagnosed, meaning that they are suffering from poor sleep and the serious health consequences without having any way of treating the condition. For more statistics, see our sleep facts page.
Unfortunately, this means that you or your bed partner could have sleep apnea and not even know about it. In fact, the only way to tell for sure if you do have sleep apnea is to have a sleep study.
How to tell if you’re at risk
It’s a common misconception that sleep apnea occurs only in middle-aged men. In fact, it can affect people of all ages and both sexes. Here are some risk factors and symptoms to look out for in yourself or your partner that could be a warning sign for the disorder:
- Daytime sleepiness/fatigue
- Being overweight or obese
- Snoring
- Waking up with a headache or sore/dry throat
- Memory loss
- Decrease in attention and concentration
- More serious medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or depression
If you or your partner matches any of these symptoms, it's time to set up a sleep study.
How can a sleep study change my new year?
A sleep study can tell you for sure if you have a sleep disorder and then help you treat sleep apnea. A study typically only lasts one night. In certain situations, it can even be done from the comfort of your own house with a Home Sleep Test (HST). (For a full breakdown of different sleep tests, what they measure for, and how they are conducted, see our Guide to Sleep Study Types and Codes).
Only once you know you have sleep apnea can you begin treating the condition!
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy can virtually eliminate all symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea! This means that you can once more wake up feeling refreshed and rested, can be sharp and attentive during the day, can improve your overall health—both mental and physical—can decrease your risk of auto or machinery accidents, and can overall set you up for a 2015 in which you feel better than ever!
Get Started Now!
If you match any of the symptoms above, or your New Year's resolution is to schedule a sleep study so you can start treating your sleep apnea, we're here to help you!
Our five easy steps to scheduling a sleep study will get you on your way to setting up an appointment. You can find many more great resources in our Resource Library!
Or, Contact Us to speak to an ASMS representative!
Also, feel free to stay in touch by commenting on our blog or following us on social media using the icons at the top right of the page. We're here to support you in your New Year's Resolution!
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and sweet dreaming!
