Whether we like it or not, the pandemic has been at the forefront of our minds for nearly a year. Frustrations over economic losses and depression due to isolation are commonplace. Yet, the most distinctive trend in the national consciousness is pervasive anxiety that we simply can’t seem to shake. Concerns for the future of education and the economy. Concerns for loved ones who are high risk. Worries that this dreadful situation has lasted much longer than we originally thought and may continue to last longer still.
For the best sleep apnea treatment in New York, visit Sleep MD. As the best sleep doctor in Brooklyn and other boroughs, Dr. Shukla has helped New Yorkers get better sleep for years.
Sleep Apnea and Covid-19
For nearly twelve months we have had very little control over our own lives, and that is deeply frustrating. The only thing that seems to help is keeping apprised of the latest information and proactively doing what we can to protect the most vulnerable among us. New information published in the scientific journal Sleeping and Breathing offers us a little more insight into the link between sleep apnea and Covid-19, allowing us to protect yet another susceptible group.
Looking at the Data
According to the data gathered from medical records in the greater Chicago area, patients with sleep apnea are eight times more likely to be infected with Covid-19 and twice as likely to experience respiratory failure while being treated for the virus. The researchers adjusted their findings to allow for the fact that obstructive sleep apnea often coexists alongside morbid obesity and cardiovascular disease, which can also be considered risk factors for Covid-19. Despite these adjustments, sleep apnea remained a clear risk factor for infection and respiratory failure.
Based on their findings, it is evident that people with sleep apnea should consider taking extra precautions to prevent infection. Wearing a filtered mask, maintaining social distance, and limiting contact outside of your household are great ways to limit your exposure. In addition, at-risk individuals should wash their hands for 60 seconds after touching outside surfaces and should avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth. Sadly, this research may indicate that patients with sleep apnea may be more vulnerable to other respiratory illnesses. Seeking treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is the best way to reduce long-term risk.
The Inherent Risks of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea doesn’t just put you at risk for getting a serious case of Covid-19. Sleep apnea prevents you from getting adequate sleep. It can contribute to lost productivity, mood swings, and it may even cause you to fall asleep with little to no warning. That may not sound dangerous if you’re simply sitting at your desk, but if it happens while you’re driving that’s a different story. In addition to the dangers presented by the loss of much-needed sleep, patients with sleep apnea are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular complications.
Getting Treatment Sleep Apnea
Fortunately, the best sleep specialist in Brooklyn is just a phone call away. At Sleep MD NYC Dr. Mayank Shukla works to help patients overcome their sleep disorders and live normal lives unimpaired by the lack of sleep. In the case of sleep apnea, your sleep specialist will want to positively diagnose your condition. Sleep studies may be needed to monitor your breathing while you sleep. Once you have a positive diagnosis, you can begin to discuss treatment options. In many cases, a specialized mandibular advancement device is all that is needed to open your airways. This allows you to breathe normally throughout the night.
By receiving treatment, you will reduce the risk factors associated with sleep apnea and improve your daily quality of life. As research is still ongoing, it is not certain that treatment will reduce your risk of Covid-19. You should still take all of the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infection.
