Who Is at Risk for Sleep Apnea? Understanding the Risk Factors

What Is Sleep Apnea and Why Should You Care?

Sleep apnea is a severe sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. If left untreated, it can lead to severe health complications such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Understanding who is at risk for sleep apnea can help you take steps to prevent or manage the condition effectively.

If you suspect you or a loved one may be at risk for sleep apnea, contact our Dental Sleep Clinic in Timonium, MD, at 410-832-5858 for expert diagnosis and treatment options.

1. Obesity: The Leading Risk Factor

One of the strongest risk factors for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is obesity. Excess weight leads to fat deposits around the neck and airway, obstructing breathing during sleep.

Key Statistics:

70% of people with sleep apnea are overweight or obese.
A 10% increase in body weight can lead to a sixfold increase in the risk of developing sleep apnea.

How to Reduce Your Risk:

Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
Avoid high-fat, processed foods that contribute to weight gain.
Consider a weight loss program if obesity is a concern.

Source: National Sleep Foundation

2. Age and Gender: Who Is More Likely to Develop Sleep Apnea?

Age Factor

Sleep apnea can occur at any age, but the risk increases as you get older.
Middle-aged and older adults are more likely to develop Central Sleep Apnea (CSA).

Gender Differences

Men are twice as likely to develop sleep apnea compared to women.
However, postmenopausal women experience an increased risk due to hormonal changes.
Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or pregnancy-related sleep apnea are also at higher risk.

If you fall into a high-risk category, a sleep evaluation can help detect early signs of sleep apnea. Call 410-832-5858 to schedule an assessment.

3. Family History and Genetics

Sleep apnea tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. If a close family member has been diagnosed, your risk may be higher due to:

Similar airway structures
Genetic predisposition to obesity
Neurological factors affecting breathing control

What You Can Do:

Be proactive about screening and testing if sleep apnea runs in your family.
Maintain healthy lifestyle habits to lower risk factors.

Source: Mayo Clinic – Sleep Apnea

4. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption

Smoking Increases Risk

Smoking irritates the upper airway and contributes to inflammation, making the airway more susceptible to collapse during sleep.

Smokers are three times more likely to develop sleep apnea than non-smokers.

Alcohol and Sedatives

Alcohol and sedatives relax the throat muscles, increasing the likelihood of airway obstruction.

Drinking alcohol before bed can worsen sleep apnea symptoms.

How to Lower Your Risk:

Quit smoking to reduce inflammation in the airway.
Avoid alcohol and sedatives at least three hours before bedtime.
Seek professional help if quitting is a challenge.

5. Nasal Congestion and Sleep Position

Nasal Congestion

Chronic nasal congestion caused by allergies, colds, or sinus issues can make breathing difficult and increase the risk of sleep apnea.

Sleep Position Matters

Sleeping on your back increases the risk of airway collapse.
Side sleeping is often recommended for people with sleep apnea.

Prevention Tips:

Use a humidifier or nasal sprays to keep nasal passages clear.
Try a positional therapy device to encourage side sleeping.

6. Medical Conditions That Increase Sleep Apnea Risk

Several medical conditions are associated with a higher risk of sleep apnea, including:

- High blood pressure (hypertension)

Type 2 diabetes
Heart failure or stroke history
Neuromuscular disorders
Chronic lung diseases (e.g., COPD, asthma)

If you have one or more of these conditions and experience sleep disturbances, getting tested for sleep apnea is crucial. Call 410-832-5858 for a consultation.

7. Undiagnosed Cases: How Many People Have Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a widespread but underdiagnosed condition:

Nearly 1 billion people worldwide have sleep apnea.
In the U.S., 30 million adults have OSA, but 80% remain undiagnosed.
Many people mistake symptoms for simple snoring or fatigue, delaying treatment.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters:

Early detection and treatment prevent serious health complications, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall well-being.

If you or a loved one snores loudly or experiences excessive daytime sleepiness, don’t ignore the signs. Call 410-832-5858 today to schedule an evaluation.

Final Thoughts: Are You at Risk?

Sleep apnea affects millions of people, many of whom are unaware of their condition. Obesity, age, genetics, smoking, and medical conditions all contribute to the likelihood of developing sleep apnea.

If you suspect you may be at risk, seeking early diagnosis and treatment is key to protecting your health.