OSA and Driving – What Could Happen?

Most people understand that driving while tired is not a good plan. You have slower reaction times, reduced attention span, and, if you actually fall asleep at the wheel, your chances of crashing become exceedingly high. However, among all the other forms of distracted or reckless driving behaviors, drowsy driving is one of the least discussed and prevented. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 168 million people admit to driving while drowsy and 103 million people admit to falling asleep at the wheel. Police reports estimate that 100,000 car accidents are caused by drowsy drivers each year. These statistics are shocking and indicate a serious problem across the country that is very difficult to address. Even if you try to get an adequate amount of sleep each night so that you can drive well-rested the next day, this effort may not be enough if you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

The OSA team at Silent Night Therapy understands the damaging effects that obstructive sleep apnea can have on your life. That is why they are dedicated to diagnosing and treating individuals in the New York area, who struggle with sleep apnea or other sleep disorders. They are ready to help you get a better night’s sleep so that you can stay safe while driving and increase your overall quality of life.

Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

When you are suffering from OSA, you are unable to get a restful night’s sleep due to disordered breathing. This condition causes your breathing to become shallow or even stop while you are asleep, and may occur multiple times throughout the night. OSA does not only disrupt your sleep but if left untreated it can prevent oxygen from reaching your organs or cause an irregular heartbeat. Typically, those suffering from OSA do not remember their irregular breathing but suffer from symptoms such as:

• Extreme fatigue
• Impotence
• Restless sleeping
• Dry mouth when you wake up
• Trouble concentrating
• Headaches

OSA may make it difficult for you to complete daily tasks, such as driving, because you are unable to sleep enough or sleep well each night. If you are unaware that you have sleep apnea, it is more likely that you are driving drowsy and may fall asleep at the wheel. This puts both you and your loved ones at risk while you are on the road.

If you or a loved or believe you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, a consultation with a sleep therapist can help. Dr. Clifford Brown at Silent Night Therapy is prepared to help you understand and treat sleep disordered breathing. He specializes in dental sleep medicine and oral appliance therapy and is ready to find the right solution for you. To learn more about OSA or to set up an appointment, call Silent Night Therapy at (631) 983-2463, today.