Snoring can be deadly, here's why

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You may not think that intense snoring is a serious problem. But according to sleep experts, the idea that snoring is harmless is a popular – and dangerous – myth.

According to a recent study published in Sleep Health, this belief is one of many myths about sleep that could actually pose a threat to public health.

Sleep, or rather lack of sleep, has serious health consequences, especially when sleep deprivation accumulates over time. The side effects of sleep deprivation range from headaches to increased risk of certain diseases.

"Our society is becoming more and more interested in sleep," Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral researcher in the NYU Faculty of Medicine's Department of Population Health and Senior Researcher, told The Active Times. l & # 39; study. "But nevertheless, the myths persist."

After badyzing over 8,000 websites, researchers discovered 20 common myths about sleep. They also found that their belief could harm people's health.

The group of experts determined the seriousness of the health consequences of each myth. to think that snoring was a boring and harmless trait was considered one of the most dangerous. This is largely due to the threat of a disease called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

A person with OSA will have loud snoring and repetitive breathing breaks throughout the night due to blockages in the airways.

"OSA affects about 30% of our population, but we have evidence that many, far less than 30% are diagnosed and are seeking treatment," Robbins said. "And it's a life-threatening sleep disorder."

Although this disorder threatens life if left untreated, there is are effective and factual treatments available. A person should simply know that snoring is a symptom that deserves to be reported to his doctor – what she could not do if she believes this myth.

"We really hope our readers will get through these myths and think about their habits," Robbins said. "A person who suffers from loud snoring, badociated with repetitive breaks in breathing, for example, will likely be more likely to talk to their health care provider."

The study addressed many other dangerous sleep myths, including the idea that your body can adapt to shorter sleep intervals. You really need to sleep seven to eight hours a night – this is what could happen if you do not do it.