When we snore on a near-nightly basis, this could mean a chronic issue. In addition, snoring could be also be linked to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In order to rest easier and feel more alert in the day, you need to find a solution for your snores. In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist looks at possible solutions.
The Factors Behind Snoring
For many people, the soft tissues in the rear of our months and in our throat could become too relaxed as we sleep. Over time, this means partial air passage collapse, so the airways narrow and when we breathe, the air forced through vibrates the tissues. These vibrations lead to loud sounds, sounds that could wake you and your significant other, impacting your ability to rest. While all of us snore on occasion, if this happens frequently then this could indicate the presence of a disorder that requires treatment!
Possible Health Impacts and OSA Connections
When air must be forced past these blockages, this causes the body to work harder through the night. You experience a drop in oxygen, and your body is overworked too. In addition, once the air passages are blocked completely, you stop breathing for brief moments. The brain wakes you, even if you don’t remember it, interrupting your sleep cycle. Known as OSA, this could mean high blood pressure, a strained immune system, a higher risk of heart disease, and in the long run, elevated chances for heart attack and stroke. In the immediate future. You could wake suddenly gasping for air, experience headaches, daytime exhaustion, dry mouth, and moodiness, and have trouble functioning during the day.
Treatment Options and Lifestyle Changes
To address the issue and prevent major complications down the road, we start with a through sleep assessment to find out how ell you rest. We may also suggest a home sleep study, in which we send you home with a small device that measures your breathing exertion and other factors behind OSA. From there, we may suggest a custom appliance to be worn as you sleep. Fitting like mouthguard, the device moves the jaw to prevent airway blockage, so you breathe (and sleep) without interruption. We also suggest resting on your side, not your back, maintaining a regular schedule when going to bed and getting up, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bed. If you have any questions about how we treat this issue, then contact our team today.
Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Wants You to Stop Snoring
At Smith Family Dentistry, our team wants to ensure you enjoy a good night’s rest. To learn more about treating issues with your ability to rest, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.