If you are worried about sleep apnea, you are not alone. This condition affects people of all ages, though it is most common among older individuals and those who are overweight or obese. There are some clues that you could have this issue, so pay attention to the key symptoms. A dentist specializing in sleep apnea treatment is also a good resource to help you understand whether you are at risk. You can then seek the appropriate treatment and overcome this condition.
There are two types of sleep apnea: central and obstructive. With central, the brain fails to properly communicate with the respiratory system to breathe effectively during sleep. In obstructive, something blocks the person’s airway, preventing the individual from breathing properly. During the night, a person with either of these conditions will stop and start breathing while asleep. This interruption can last up to a few minutes at a time. The consequences not only hinder a sound sleep but can cause circulatory system problems.
When a bed partner snores, it is not only an annoying habit, but it can signal that something is preventing the person from breathing well. For many people who snore, the muscles in the mouth and throat relax. This blocks the airway, and the tissues vibrate as air tries to pass through. The snoring can become louder and more consistent when there is more blockage. People who consume alcohol, who have large necks, and who have weight problems tend to be more prone to snoring.
Anyone who has ever slept poorly during the night has experienced the effects the following day. When an individual does not rest well, they will likely feel sleepy during the daytime. This can be evident by yawning, nodding off, or feeling exhausted. Because sleep apnea causes the person to suddenly stop breathing, the individual will usually wake up momentarily. If this pattern continues throughout the night, the person will not get a full night’s rest.
People who have high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems could point to any number of factors as the culprit. Sleep apnea could be one of them. If the airway is blocked, the person will have to work harder to get enough air into the lungs and throughout the body. This can strain the heart and cause a drop in blood oxygen levels. Untreated, this could cause heart attacks or strokes.
It is vital to pay close attention to these warning signs. Sleep apnea can be fatal if you do not get immediate treatment and start to control its effects. Fortunately, this condition does not have to sneak up on you. If you snore regularly, feel tired all the time, or have high blood pressure, consult a dentist who is a Diplomate of The American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. A mouth appliance or other treatments could be effective steps in helping you to defeat this serious problem. Make an appointment today to discuss your concerns and to get on the road to recovery.
Request an appointment here: https://artisandentalbellevue.com or call Artisan Dental at (425) 454-2005 for an appointment in our Bellevue office.
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