During the deepest form of sleep, known as REM (rapid eye movement), we all relax. For some people, that results in softened throat tissue that partially or completely blocks the airway. Sleep apnea can cause symptoms such as loud and aggressive snoring, which can keep both you and your partner up at night.
OSA also poses serious risks to a person’s health. Studies have shown that people with untreated sleep apnea are at a significantly higher risk of heart attack and stroke, so it is important to talk to a professional if you notice signs and symptoms of this common sleep disorder. With sleep apnea, it’s about more than just feeling tired before noon, it’s about your health.
When your partner starts to bring up their worry about your loud and concerning snoring, then speak with a medical provider about your sleep. Chronic obstructive sleep apnea can increase your risk of serious health problems, so it is important to take it seriously. If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, our team can help you to understand more about your rest.
There are some signs that can help you to gauge the quality of sleep, however. Patients with OSA can see a variety of symptoms, including dry mouth or headaches in the morning. Those with sleep apnea can also experience daytime drowsiness due to a lack of uninterrupted sleep. For some, the recommendation of a trusted loved one is the reason that people seek treatment.
If you receive a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, our team is here to help you to achieve a better night of rest. With oral appliance therapy, you can avoid the noise and hassle of a CPAP machine, helping you to have a more natural experience when sleeping. Through the use of a slim appliance (similar to a mouthguard), this treatment keeps the airway open through the night by gently repositioning the jaw. Simply wear your oral appliance nightly and start improving sleep with oral appliance therapy!
To learn about your treatment options for sleep apnea, contact our office to schedule an evaluation.