Do you suffer from extremely loud snoring at night? Do you struggle to feel fully rested even after a full night’s rest? These are key symptoms of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious disorder that could be impacting your sleep as well as your health.
There are three different types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea: this is the most common type and occurs when your throat muscles are relaxed.
- Central sleep apnea: this is typified by the brain failing to send the right signals to the muscles needed to control breathing.
- Complex sleep apnea syndrome: this type is the combination of the previous two types
The important thing to remember is that you do not have to suffer from this condition. If you believe that you may have sleep apnea, we suggest you talk to your dentist or doctor as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
There are many different signs and signals that you or a loved one may have this disorder. Look out for the following symptoms:
- Trouble staying asleep
- Frequent irritability
- Headaches in the morning
- Being tired often throughout the day
- Loud snoring
- Trouble paying attention throughout the day
- Difficulty breathing during rest
- Instances where you cease breathing during rest
Some of these are difficult to identify yourself. Ask a loved one if they notice any of the above signs. Likewise, if you notice these signs in your loved one, we suggest you alert them as soon as possible and advise them to see a doctor.
Are You at Risk of Sleep Apnea?
Unfortunately, certain demographics are at a higher risk of sleep apnea than others. This disorder can affect anyone, but it is important to note if you have a higher risk. There are different risk factors for the different types, which we will go over to help you be prepared.
Risks Factors of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Obesity
- Males
- Narrow throat
- Higher age
- Excessive alcohol and sedative use
- Tobacco use
- Congestion
Central Sleep Apnea
- Middle-age to older adults
- Males
- Heart disease or stroke
- Frequent narcotics use
If you identify with any of the above, be sure to take this into account. Your health is of utmost importance, and it is always good to be as prepared as possible for possible complications.
Complications Associated with Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea can cause a range of further health complications, which is why you should seek medical attention as soon as possible if you are concerned.
Because this is a sleep disorder, it interrupts your night’s rest. This causes it to be less restful. Due to the constant interruptions throughout the night, this disorder can cause you to be extremely drowsy and moody throughout the day. This inhibits your everyday activities.
It is also linked with several other diseases including metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and liver problems. It can also cause issues with medications and anesthesia, making surgery more complicated.
How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?
Sleep apnea is typically treated with the use of a CPAP, continuous positive airway pressure device. CPAP has been proven to be a very effective way to treat this disorder. A CPAP is a machine that is placed on your face at night to allow for continuous airflow throughout the night.
What Can You Do About It?
If you have concerns, the best thing to do is to talk to your dentist or doctor. Both dentists and doctors have the means to treat this disorder. Here at Dentrix Dental, we can help evaluate your condition and see if you could benefit from a referral. Contact us today!