Have you been experiencing issues such as recurring sinusitis or sleep apnea? Were you aware that these issues can potentially be addressed by an ear nose and throat specialist?
Recent figures show that 29.4 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with sinusitis. An estimated 18 million individuals experience sleep apnea. Given that both of these conditions will interrupt sleep cycles, it’s important to be properly diagnosed and learn more about available options.
The University of Washington reported that people have about 12 million olfactory receptor cells, and can detect over 10,000 scents. On a daily basis, roughly 20,000 liters of air pass through the average adult’s nose. When people can’t breathe through their nose due to sinusitis or other issues, the ability to recognize all these scents can be greatly impaired.
It’s been determined that 6.62% of the United States’ population experiences sleep apnea. Many individuals, however, remain undiagnosed. It is believed that this pertains to 2% to 4% of Americans.
When left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to other health risks. A person with an untreated case of sleep apnea is 4 times more likely to be at risk for having a stroke. These individuals are also 3 times more likely to have heart disease. Since there are treatment options available, it’s important to seek medical attention.
If you’re experiencing breathing issues throughout the day and/or while you sleep at night, it would be a good idea to schedule an appointment with an ear nose and throat surgeon. Plastic surgeons that specialize in this area may recommend rhinoplasty as a possible solution for recurring sinusitis and sleep apnea. Since recommended treatment will depend on a variety of factors, there are other recommendations that plastic surgeons may make.
Since both recurring sinusitis and sleep apnea can interrupt your sleep cycle and potentially lead to serious health issues, it’s important to seek professional medical treatment at your earliest convenience. If you’ve also been experiencing ear infections or other issues related to your ears, be sure to bring this to the attention of your ear, nose, and throat specialist. Middle ear infections are prevalent in the United States, and these can also lead to additional problems.
