Sleep apnea is a potentially dangerous condition that affects your breathing while you sleep. Many patients who suffer from sleep apnea completely stop breathing for periods of time during the night. To learn more about sleep apnea and how to treat it, keep reading.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Two forms of sleep apnea exist: obstructive and central. Obstructive sleep apnea is more common and happens when the muscles in the back of the throat become too relaxed. Central sleep apnea is more severe, and it is the result of the brain failing to send signals to the muscles that control your breathing while you sleep. While sleep apnea can happen to anyone, there are risk factors. It’s much more common in people who are overweight. Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can also lead to sleep apnea.
Do I Have Sleep Apnea?
There are several warning signs that indicate you may be dealing with sleep apnea. These include intense fatigue, unusual sleep patterns, snoring, headaches, dry mouth, bad breath, memory loss, and mood swings.
How Do I Treat It?
Sleep apnea is dangerous. If left untreated, it can lead to even more serious conditions such as high blood pressure, depression, and diabetes. The leading treatment for sleep apnea is CPAP therapy. This technique employs a breathing machine to help you take regular breaths during the night. An alternative to a CPAP is an oral appliance, which is what we offer here at Hillstream Dental. The oral appliance is a great first step for those looking for a solution to sleep apnea. Not everyone needs a CPAP machine and oral appliances are more comfortable and have fewer side effects.
Treating Sleep Apnea in Rochester Hills & St. Clair Shores
Sleep apnea is not something you want to ignore. If you or someone in your household is suffering from this condition, give us a call. We’ll help you find the best solution that will ensure you are getting a safe, healthy night’s sleep! Hillstream Dental can help you with all of your dental needs.
