We’ve looked at the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but what causes the disorder to form in the first place? In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist will explain what makes someone susceptible to developing this sleep disorder, and how changes to your daily habits could help ease many risk factors.

Natural Risk Factors

What makes you at risk of developing a disorder like OSA, in which you stop breathing multiple times a night and interrupts your sleep cycle? Well, a large neck circumference, sinus or allergy issues, a deviated septum, and an injury to your face that impacts nasal and air passages could all mean an increased likelihood of airway obstruction as you sleep. As a result, snoring is common and the risk of OSA increases with time. While the issue could impact teens and adults of all ages and genders, men 55 and older are at a particularly high risk. Obesity could also be a risk factor as well.

Poor Sleep Habits

The way we approach bedtime could lead to issues resting properly too. When you lay down on your back, you’re more likely to experience airway obstruction than if you were on your side. Looking at screens right before bed, particularly smartphone screens, could make going to sleep problematic. Fostering the right nighttime environment is an issue too, as you want your bedroom to be dark, cool, and free of light. Your activities before laying down could impact your rest, in the two hours before bedtime try to avoid exercise, large meals, caffeine, or excessive alcohol consumption.

Signs of Trouble

Now, let’s talk about when you should see us. People with OSA often report chronic snoring, waking up with dry mouth, and experiencing headaches during the day. Drowsiness and an inability to stay focused, as well as moodiness, are symptoms as well. You may also wake suddenly struggling to breathe or gasping for breath. If one or more of these warning signs applies to your life, then let us know right away. We can provide an accurate diagnosis using our sleep assessment and the at-home Pulse Oximeter sleep test. From there, treatment options could be recommended, such as our custom-fitted and comfortable oral appliances, which you wear like a mouthguard as you rest. If you have any questions about fostering the right sleeping environment, or about recognizing the warning signs of OSA, then contact our team today.

Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Talks About Sleep Disorders

At Smith Family Dentistry, our team knows how to help treat issues like OSA, and help assess risk factors too. To learn more about improving your quality of life with proper rest, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.