When it comes to feeling your best, few things are as important as a good night’s sleep. However, getting good sleep is easier said than done for people with sleep apnea. Plus, researchers estimate that only around 20% of people with sleep apnea have been diagnosed with the condition! At Gary Johnson DDS. Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we are proud to educate our patients on sleep apnea and provide treatment that can help you get the good night’s sleep you deserve.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that interrupts your breathing while you sleep. Some people experience these interruptions up to 30 times each night! Each time your breathing pauses, your body reacts by waking up. These wake periods are brief so you may not even recognize them, but the constant disruption throughout the night can leave you feeling groggy and sleepy throughout the day.
What Are the Signs of Sleep Apnea?
There are many different symptoms of sleep apnea. One of the most common is loud snoring or choking sounds while sleeping, which mean that your body has restarted breathing. People with sleep apnea may also wake up gasping or short of breath or have a headache in the morning. Other signs include extreme drowsiness or falling asleep throughout the day.
How Do We Treat Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea treatments vary according to the individual, the severity, and the type of sleep apnea. Sometimes, lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or losing weight can alleviate sleep apnea symptoms. Other times, we may recommend an oral device. Oral devices treat sleep apnea by gently shifting your jaw while you sleep, which opens up your airway and allows you to breathe freely.
Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder. Left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure and put you at risk for stroke and heart failure. Daytime sleepiness can also lead to issues at work or school. If you suspect that you might have sleep apnea, contact us to schedule a consultation!