The Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea

You're not just keeping your partner awake. Your snoring could signal more trouble than just a bad night's sleep. Learn more by contacting Dr. Christopher Paulson of Arbor Dental Associates in Novi, MI.

What to Look For

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by loud or irregular snoring. But that's only part of it.

The reason for the snoring is because your upper airway becomes blocked while you attempt to sleep.

When your brain senses a lack of oxygen it wakes you to force a full breath of air. But as soon as you sleep again the process repeats itself until the morning alarm rings.

Beyond the snoring, but due to it, a warning sign is feeling very sleepy during the day. The interrupted nights of sleep can result in decreased attention, concentration, and may even impact your memory.

What's at Stake

A good night's sleep isn't the only cost of suffering from sleep apnea. It has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancers, and even stroke and heart attack.

Some unhealthy habits put you at greater risk of developing sleep apnea. Such as alcohol, smoking, unhealthy eating, and lack of physical activity.

Alcohol can relax the muscles responsible for breathing, smoking affects your airway, and both can impact how your brain controls sleep.

Obesity is among the most common causes of sleep apnea, hence its link to obesity-related complications and disease.

Sleep Apnea Treatment in Novi, MI

There's a lot you can do yourself, most important of all is abandoning bad habits, and taking on good ones. Quitting smoking and improving your diet are two big steps you can take today. Your doctor may be able to advise you on both.

Treatment options are varied, depending on the severity of your sleep apnea. A common one is an appliance you wear at night that supports your jaw and helps your airway clear.

But to find out what's best for you, give Dr. Paulson of Arbor Dental Associates a call in Novi, MI, by dialing (248) 468-4962.