Stop searching for answers across the Internet—we’ve got some risks to share with you so you don’t have to look any further. As you know, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when breathing pathways through the mouth, nose or throat are collapsed or blocked. These airways are susceptible to blockages, or collapse, as the muscle tone lining these pathways relaxes during sleep. So, who is at risk for sleep apnea? Let’s find out!

You are at Risk If…

Those who are the most at risk for developing sleep apnea are overweight individuals. Due to excess tissue, pressure is placed on the airway. More than half of those with sleep apnea are classified as overweight—an issue we need to tackle now. Your risk for developing sleep apnea significantly increases with increased weight, age and those with diabetes, as well as smokers.

You may also be susceptible to sleep apnea if you have a constricted shape or small size of certain features in the nose, mouth or throat. Allergies and other medical conditions can also cause the features along the airway to restrict the flow of oxygen. On the other hand, sleep apnea is often more common in men than women. It is also more common among African Americans, Hispanics and Pacific Islanders than Caucasians.

Contact Craniofacial Pain and Dental Sleep Center of Virginia for more information and to find out if you have sleep apnea. Together, Dr. Foster and her team of dental professionals can help improve your health.