What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

Sleep Apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding its symptoms is the first step towards getting a diagnosis and finding an effective treatment plan. At Myers + Co Family Dentistry, we're committed to helping our patients get a good night's rest with sleep apnea treatment in Cary.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea manifests in various ways, making it sometimes challenging to identify. However, there are some common symptoms that you should watch out for:

• Loud and chronic snoring
• Choking, snorting, or gasping during sleep
• Long pauses in breathing
• Daytime sleepiness, no matter how much time you spend in bed at night

It's important to note that not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, and not everyone who has sleep apnea snores. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek medical advice.

The Impact of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Untreated sleep apnea can lead to a range of health problems over time, including:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Depression

Moreover, the constant fatigue caused by sleep apnea can result in decreased productivity at work, strained relationships, and even dangerous situations, like falling asleep while driving.

Types of Sleep Apnea

While obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form, it's important to understand that there are different types of sleep apnea:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Caused by a physical blockage of the airway, usually when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep.
• Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Less common, this occurs when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe due to instability in the respiratory control center.
• Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Understanding which type of sleep apnea you have is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach.

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

While sleep apnea can affect anyone, certain factors can increase your risk:

• Excess weight
• Neck circumference
• Age (risk increases with age)
• Gender (men are more likely to develop sleep apnea)
• Family history
• Use of alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers
• Smoking
• Nasal congestion

Being aware of these risk factors can help you take preventive measures and seek early diagnosis if you're in a high-risk category.

Lifestyle Changes to Improve Sleep Apnea

While medical treatments are often necessary, certain lifestyle changes can significantly improve sleep apnea symptoms:

• Weight loss: Even a modest weight loss can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
• Regular exercise: This can help strengthen your respiratory system and promote better sleep.
• Positional therapy: Sleeping on your side instead of your back can help keep your airway open.
• Avoiding alcohol and sedatives: These substances can relax the muscles in your throat, worsening symptoms.
• Establishing a regular sleep schedule: This can help improve overall sleep quality.

Implementing these changes alongside professional treatment can lead to better management of sleep apnea and improved overall health.

Diagnosis and Treatment 

Diagnosing sleep apnea usually involves a sleep study, either at a sleep center or at home. Once diagnosed, a range of treatments are available, including lifestyle changes, CPAP therapy, oral appliances, and in some cases, surgery. The right treatment for you will depend on the severity of your sleep apnea and your overall health.

The Role of Dentistry in Managing Sleep Apnea

You might be wondering how a dentist fits into all of this. Well, dentists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. Oral appliances, similar to mouth guards or orthodontic retainers, can be custom-made by a dentist to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. These devices move the jaw forward to keep the airway open during sleep.

Schedule Your Appointment in Cary Today

If you're experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, don't wait to seek help. Reach out to Myers + Co Family Dentistry at (919) 851-5166 to schedule an appointment. We're here to provide you with the care and treatment you need to get a good night's sleep and improve your overall health.