Snoring and other Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea
Are you feeling like you just aren’t sleeping well at night? Do you receive complains due to snoring? Do you routinely catch yourself dozing off in the afternoon? If so, you may be suffering from a common but under-diagnosed problem known as obstructive sleep apnea.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Characterized by loud and frequent snoring, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the tongue and soft palate collapse onto the back of the throat, blocking the upper airway. This obstruction causes you to stop breathing up to hundreds of times a night for anywhere from a few seconds to more than a minute.
If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea is a potentially life threatening disease that can increase the risk for serious health problems such as:
Stroke Heart disease High blood pressure Chronic acid reflux Diabetes Depression ED Learning and memory difficulties Reduced strength Fatigue-related accidents
Who has Sleep Apnea?
OSA is a common problem that can affect people of any age and body type. The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine reports that at least 25 million adults in the United States suffer from sleep apnea. Although sleep apnea can occur at any age, the risk increases as you get older. While it is more common in men, it can occur in women too, especially during and after menopause. Having excess body weight, a narrow airway, a recessed chin or misaligned jaw all can increase the risk of sleep apnea.
Do I have Sleep Apnea?
Perhaps the most important question to ask yourself is, are you getting a good night’s sleep? If not, try recording yourself sleeping or ask your bed partner to listen while you sleep. Pay attention to the following warning signs:
Loud, frequent snoring – a common symptom of sleep apnea.
Breathing pauses. Your bed partner may hear you gasp for breath in your sleep or may wait to hear you take your next breath.
Excessive daytime sleepiness (the ability to fall asleep anywhere, at any time)
Morning headaches
Memory problems
Irritability or moodiness
Decreased sexual drive or impotence
Acid reflux symptoms like indigestion, heart burn or chest pain
What should I do next?
For those who suspect they may have Sleep Apnea or are seeking treatment already, we can help! Our team at Dental Wellness at Weston will answer your questions, including the process for diagnosis and treatment options.
The first step is for you to be diagnosed by a physician. We work closely with board-certified sleep medicine doctors who will diagnose and help you decide on treatment alternatives. If you are a viable candidate for OAT we will then fit you with an oral device which looks like a sports mouth guard that is worn only during sleep. These devices are covered by many insurance plans.
We can work together to get you sleeping more soundly!
Schedule a consultation by calling (954) 706–6440 - Hablamos Español -
Dr. Gabriela Bozzuti is an AADSM Qualified Dentist who helps treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea with an effective Non-Invasive treatment known as Oral Appliance Therapy,
Dr. Bozzuti is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, a professional association dedicated exclusively to the practice of dental sleep medicine, which provides its members with resources and tools to enable the highest quality of care.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.