Snoring is often more than just a loud noise. It can also signal obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, a common sleep disorder that disrupts nightly rest and overall health. Here at the Greater Attleboro Center for Dental Sleep Medicine in Attleboro Falls, MA, our four dental sleep medicine specialists customize care to manage OSA—read on to learn more.
What happens with OSA?
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine reports that 25 million American adults struggle with sleep apnea. Characterized by loud snoring, breathing cessation (apnea), gasping, and waking, this sleep disorder impacts systemic health by causing:
- Hypertension
- Stroke
- Type-2 diabetes
- Sexual dysfunction
- Poor memory and concentration
- Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
- Problems with marital and other interpersonal relationships
OSA occurs when the tissues at the back of the throat are too large or simply relax and cover the airway as you sleep. Large neck circumference, smoking, and alcohol abuse all contribute to OSA.
Alternatively, some people have CSA, or Central Sleep Apnea, which is brain-based. Still, others combine features of OSA and CSA.
Common sleep apnea treatments
Some people improve with a simple snore guard, a customized acrylic device that positions the lower jaw forward as you sleep. The airway opens, and you snore far less and breathe properly.
Other patients benefit from a CPAP machine. CPAP means Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. This bedside device sends a steady stream of air through a hose and facial mask. The airway opens and stays open through the night. Sleep apnea resolves, and overall health improves, particularly sleepiness, fatigue, and blood pressure.
Snore less and feel much better with the help of our Attleboro Falls office
You deserve a good night's sleep and your best possible health. If you and your family are concerned about your snoring, call The Greater Attleboro Center for Dental Sleep Medicine in Attleboro Falls. Our dentists really care, and they can help. Please call our friendly office team to arrange your consultation: (508) 699-9550.