Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder in which air cannot move freely through the nose and throat, causing a reduction in available oxygen. Sleep apnea actually stems from an inadequate airway, and can be attributed to hereditary anatomy of the nasal and throat passages and/or obesity. In many cases, patients who suffer from sleep apnea are unaware of the signs and symptoms, or uninformed as to the health risks associated with the condition.
Although a consultation with your Woodbury dentist may be necessary to confirm the disorder, many of the warning signs can be identified at home. Some of the symptoms most identifiable at home include heavy or disruptive snoring, and failure to achieve deep and satisfying levels of sleep.
It’s important to know that delaying or ignoring treatment recommendations can actually be harmful to your health:
- Due to interrupted sleep patterns and a depleted oxygen supply, sleep apnea sufferers begin to lack necessary or adequate rest. The body is unable to fully recuperate from stress or illness.
- Inability to concentrate during normal daily activities such as driving, critical thinking, and work-related tasks can be both dangerous and frustrating.
- Lack of sleep can lead to obesity/weight gain. Sufferers may tend to consume more unhealthy foods and drinks during the day in an effort to stay awake and alert, while also feeling too tired to remain active throughout the day.
- A weakened immune system and more frequent cold/flu symptoms can be a health risk which leads to more serious health conditions.
Fortunately, the treatment for sleep apnea is typically conservative and fast-acting. Your dentist may recommend a comfortable mask that can be worn while sleeping. By delivering a gentle flow of air, the mask can help to keep the passages of the nose and throat open.
Sometimes, a small, custom-fitted mouth guard can effectively treat sleep apnea. Similar to an athletic mouth guard, your dentist may prescribe this appliance to properly position the lower jaw, keeping the airway open and enabling oxygen to flow unobstructed.
These treatments are effective for treating and preventing the harmful effects of sleep apnea, while also addressing the more annoying symptoms such as snoring. To find out how sleep apnea treatments, prescribed by our dental team, can improve your quality of sleep for yourself, schedule an appointment today.