Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by pauses and sudden stoppages of breathing while sleeping, or attempting to sleep. Involuntary actions such as the tongue rolling back in the throat or collapsed tissue in the airway can be the cause of something called obstructive sleep apnea. Left untreated, this condition can contribute to several other very serious health conditions including high blood pressure and liver or heart disease.
For the most accurate diagnosis, you must see a sleep physician. We recommend that you talk with these professionals, as well as your dentist if you suffer from any of the following common symptoms:
- Irritability and fluctuating personality
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Snoring
- Awaking with a dry or sore throat
- Morning headaches (frequent)
- Excess drowsiness during the day
Treatment for sleep apnea depends on factors including severity. Simple oral inserts can aid in helping moderate sleep apnea cases. These appliances work to treat obstructive sleep apnea by preventing the tongue from interfering with the airway or by holding your jaw in place so that it will be unable to block the airway while you sleep. For more information on this condition and treatment, please do not hesitate to call us today. We are committed to improving your health.