Do you routinely catch yourself dozing off in the afternoon? Does your partner constantly complain about your snoring? Are you feeling like you just aren’t sleeping well at night, even though you can’t remember tossing or turning? If so, you may be suffering from a common but underdiagnosed problem known as obstructive sleep apnea.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Characterized by loud and frequent snoring, obstructive sleep apnea 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. These problems include congestive heart failure, stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, depression and impotence. Pay attention to the following warning signs:
- Loud, frequent snoring – Loud and frequent snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea.
- Breathing pauses – By definition, sleep apnea involves repeated breathing pauses throughout the night. Your bed partner may hear you gasp for breath in your sleep or may wait (slightly panicked) to hear you take your next breath.
Watch for:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness (the ability to fall asleep anywhere, at any time)
- Memory problems
- Irritability or moodiness
- Decreased sex drive or impotence
- Morning headaches
- Acid reflux symptoms such as indigestion and heart burn or chest pain
Who has Sleep Apnea?
If you think you have sleep apnea, you’re not alone. Obstructive sleep apnea 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 the sleep disorder 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.
How do I Know if I Have Sleep Apnea?
In order to be diagnosed with Sleep Apnea you should see a Board Certified Sleep Medicine Doctor. Once diagnosed, your doctor will talk to you about your treatment options. The most common treatment for sleep apnea is continuous positive air pressure therapy or “CPAP machine”. The machine keeps your airway open by providing forced air via flexible tubing. CPAP therapy is effective, however some people are unable to tolerate the machine. If this is the case your Doctor can give you a prescription for a sleep apnea appliance.
If you think you may have sleep apnea – don’t worry – we can help. Our trained team at GC Dental Arts can answer your questions about obstructive sleep apnea, including the process for diagnosis and treatment options.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliance therapy is an alternative option for the treatment of Sleep Apnea. It is an FDA approved orthotic device fabricated by specialized and licensed dentists. Our custom designed appliance gently realigns the tongue and the jaw to assure open airway as you sleep. Many patients prefer an oral appliance because it is comfortable, portable, quiet and easy to wear.
Dr. Joseph Gulle and Dr. Erika Caviedes are committed to helping patients sleep better, improve their health and enhance their quality of life. We follow the recommended guidelines of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and our practice adheres to practice protocols that are consistent with highest levels of patient care.
Schedule a consultation to discuss sleep apnea by calling 813-672-4900 or visit us online at www.GCDentalArts.com.