Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that is so much more than getting a poor night’s rest. Essentially, airflow is blocked and the sufferer stops breathing for short periods numerous times per night, sometimes for the worst cases, hundreds of times a night. Not only can this be frightening, but it can be dangerous. While loud snoring and perhaps choking may wake the person up, there are other potential complications if left untreated. Lack of sleep is the least of it.
Read on to learn more about sleep apnea, who’s at the greatest risk, what causes it, and what the team at Park Dental can do to help. A better night’s sleep and better health are possible, so please don’t suffer in silence. We’re here to help, but first, a little education…
What is Sleep Apnea?
People who are afflicted with sleep apnea are affected while they sleep when the tongue and soft palate collapse. When they block the throat, airflow is obstructed and the patient cannot breathe properly. Gasping for air, the person will awaken, leading to lack of REM sleep which can cause other complications down the road such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, depression, fibromyalgia, liver issues, and a host of other health problems.
Signs of Sleep Apnea
- Extreme daytime drowsiness
- Irritability/mood swings/personality changes
- Lack of energy
- Problems sleeping through the night/insomnia
- Loud breathing
- Nightmares
- Snoring
- Waking up with a dry/sore throat
- Headaches
- Weight gain
Who’s at the Highest Risk?
- Men age 40+
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Overweight/obese
- Alcohol/tobacco use
- Use of sedatives/tranquilizers
What Park Dental Can Do to Help?
In extreme cases of sleep apnea, patients are often hooked up to a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine which they’ll wear during sleep to ensure the airway remains unblocked. However, there are other less cumbersome options that have been proven to have a positive impact on patients’ lives. We regularly recommend an oral appliance that is worn at bedtime which fits comfortably over the teeth and prevents the airway from being blocked by repositioning the tongue and jaw.
Are you concerned that you may be suffering from sleep apnea or know someone who may be afflicted, perhaps a partner? We are here to answer any questions pertaining to sleep apnea and address any concerns. Don’t suffer while you sleep anymore. Give us a call at 407-671-8901 and we’ll figure out if you are dealing with this debilitating condition and propose a plan to get you the rest and relaxation you’ve been missing.
