As we age, we unfortunately often encounter more health-related challenges. Our bodies slow down the production of collagen, causing our skin to sag, healing times at least seem longer, and even levels like our cholesterol level become more of a concern as we age. When it comes to cholesterol, there are two types. They are low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein, (also known as LDL and HDL, respectively). Low-density lipoprotein is considered “bad” cholesterol, while high-density lipoprotein is considered good, helping to fight off LDL cholesterol in the body. This means you want your LDL low, and your HDL high. But now, researchers have found that something surprising could be raising your LDL levels, and you may not even realize it. In a new study, researchers found a link between LDL levels and sleep apnea.Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes your airway to collapse as you breathe during the night. Sleep apnea warning signs include gasping for air as you breathe in the night, snoring, daytime lethargy, and cognitive impairment. Now it's been discovered that it could be causing or contributing to high cholesterol, too!Cholesterol is tricky because we often don’t know if our levels are high or low without testing. Testing means bloodwork from your doctor, but it is an essential test everyone should have during their regular physical, as it can be treated with medications called statins, as well as diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and other lifestyle changes.If you do have sleep apnea, this study shows that it’s of the utmost importance that you get your normal cholesterol levels checked as often as recommended by your physician. In the same vein, if you have sleep apnea, getting your normal cholesterol levels checked is always a good idea, especially if you smoke, are obese or overweight, or lead a sedentary lifestyle.The good news of course is that both high cholesterol and sleep apnea are treatable conditions. For sleep apnea, many doctors recommend CPAP therapy, a device that forces air into the airway as you sleep. Unfortunately, many people do not comply with their CPAP prescription because they find the machine uncomfortable and difficult to operate and care for. This means its not doing them any good. A solution to this is a mandibular sleep device that positions the airway open comfortably as you sleep. The size of a retainer, it is easy to use, comfortable to wear, and easier to care for.Dr. Peterson offers mandibular sleep devices in the clinic and would be happy to discuss the pros and cons of these devices with you. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Peterson to discuss your sleep apnea options, or for any other reason, please contact the office today!