Does Sleep Apnea Make You Age Faster?

22 million Americans have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which has been linked to an increased risk of several serious health conditions, like heart disease and diabetes. New research also suggests the breathing disorder can accelerate the biological aging process. Thankfully, sleep apnea therapy can slow the clock. 

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most prevalent form of the condition. Frequent breathing disruptions occur from a narrowed air passage caused by the tongue or tissues in the back of the throat collapsing when relaxed. This can result in hundreds of pauses in breathing every night, with each event potentially lasting for a minute or longer. 

Every time you stop breathing, it interrupts your sleep cycle, which is why fatigue and sleep deprivation are common complications. In addition, your body is also depleted of oxygen, affecting your health negatively. You can develop potentially life-threatening health conditions with no treatment, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. However, new evidence suggests it can also lead to a shorter lifespan.

Sleep Apnea and Accelerated Aging

Researchers analyzed DNA in blood samples using an algorithm method to determine a person’s biological age. If a person’s biological age is higher than their chronological age, it is known as “epigenetic age acceleration,” which is connected to chronic diseases and a shorter life expectancy. According to the results of the study, patients with OSA-induced sleep disruptions and lower oxygen levels showed biological age acceleration. Researchers also found that OSA treatment partially reversed age acceleration.

Options to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea

OSA is easy to treat with sleep apnea therapy. After a diagnosis is confirmed, you’ll be referred for treatment, which may include:

• CPAP: A CPAP machine is the most traditional method of treating obstructive sleep apnea. Air pressure is delivered through a mask worn over the mouth or nose to keep the airway open. Although it is effective, it can be bothersome for some patients.
• Oral Appliance: An oral appliance is a great alternative to a CPAP machine. The custom-fit device trains the tongue and jaw to rest in a comfortable position to prevent them from blocking the airway. It’s an effective method of treating mild-to-moderate OSA. An oral appliance can be used alone or along with a CPAP.

Life goes by in a blur. Don’t speed up the process by ignoring your sleep apnea symptoms. You can breathe better to get the rest you need to support your overall wellness with sleep apnea therapy.

About Dr. Kenneth J. Canzoneri

Dr. Canzoneri achieved his dental degree at the Northwestern Dental School and has continued his education in many specialties, including laser dentistry, sedation, and sleep medicine. He has memberships with several professional organizations, including the American Academy of General Dentistry. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (626) 684-4988.