Your Dentist in Tysons Says Sleep Apnea is More Than Just Loud Snoring

If you’re a frequently loud snorer, then there is a chance you have sleep apnea. However, that’s not the only symptom of the condition. There are a host of other signs to be on the lookout for, and you’ll become acquainted with them as you continue reading. Additionally, you’ll learn what sleep apnea is and how it can be treated.

A Simple Definition of Sleep Apnea

The word ‘apnea’ refers to a temporary lapse or pause in your breathing while sleeping. The most common form of sleep apnea is obstructed sleep apnea (OSA), which can be caused by the following two circumstances:

• The neck girth is enlarged, which causes the throat muscles to collapse and partially block the airway.
• The tongue has settled in the back of the mouth and has restricted the flow of air.

One of the possible warning signs of sleep apnea is loud snoring that results from the vibrations generated by the restricted air passage. There are still other sleep apnea symptoms to be on the lookout for, though.

Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea

Along with loud snoring, here are some other symptoms to look for:

• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Memory loss
• Decreased libido
• Daytime lethargy
• Unrefreshing sleep
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Choking or gasping sounds
• Lapses or pauses in breathing

Sleep apnea can be a dangerous condition that leaves you more susceptible heart attack, stroke, obesity and other serious health issues. If you notice any of the above symptoms, you should reach out to your sleep apnea dentist.

Common Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Thankfully, you don’t have to settle with living with sleep apnea. Two of the more common treatment options are a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine and an oral sleep appliance.

Here are some details on each:

• The CPAP Machine – This form of treatment consists of a mask that receives pressurized air from a base unit via a long tube that connects the two parts. As the name suggests, it continuously pumps oxygen into your mouth while you sleep.
• An Oral Sleep Appliance – For some people, the CPAP machine experience isn’t desirable. An alternative is an oral sleep appliance, which is designed to position the jaw so that your airway stays open while you sleep. It is silent, small and portable.

Sleep apnea is definitely not a condition to procrastinate in seeking treatment for. So if you’ve noticed any of the above warning signs, then it’s important to reach out to your sleep apnea dentist to schedule a visit. With the expert care you receive, you can soon get back to getting the rest you need.

About the Author

Dr. Alex M. Naini provides top-notch dental care inside a state-of-the-art facility. A graduate of the University of Maryland Dental School, she received advanced postgraduate training from the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Studies. Dr. Naini takes pride making every patient feel comfortable and yet assured they are receiving the best in dental care at Aesthetic Dental Spa. She can be reached for more information through her website.