Millions of Americans suffer from a serious disorder that prevents them from resting at night, and leaves them exhausted during the day. But how do you recognize the warning signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and when should you see us for treatment? In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist talk about treating poor sleep issues!
The Symptoms of OSA
People with OSA may snore frequently in the night, which impacts the sleep of their significant others too. Other warning signs include waking suddenly in the night gasping for air or choking, waking with dry mouth, and headaches or migraines during the day. Daytime exhaustion is commonly reported too, as well as moodiness and difficulty concentrating on tasks at work or school. If you encounter one or more of these potential symptoms, then please let us know right away.
Causes of Sleep Troubles
The disorder means that as you sleep, the soft tissues in the back of your mouth and in your throat become too relaxed and collapse, blocking airflow. You then stop breathing for several seconds, enough for the brain to wake you. While you may not remember waking up, this could happen multiple times in the night, leaving your exhausted the next day. Factors behind the disorder include a large neck circumference, deviated septum, sinus or allergy issues, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption. While OSA impacts people of all genders and ages, it primarily develops in those 55 and older. Lack of treatment could lead to poor heart health, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke or heart attack. More frequent illness is common too, as this issue could strain your immune system.
Diagnosis and Treatment
We start with a sleep assessment, in which we gauge how well you’re resting. We then send you home with a small device that sits at your bedside, recording your sleep habits. If we find you have OSA, then we will likely create an oral appliance that fits like a mouthguard. The device is custom-fitted to your smile, and will move the jaw forward enough to prevent the collapse of soft tissues. You then breathe without interruption, and as a result, sleep without interruption too. If you have any questions about how we approach treating this issue, then talk to our team today. We want to help you enjoy your best night’s rest, and avoid the complications of the disorder.
Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Provides Sleep Solutions
At Smith Family Dentistry, our team wants you to know when to seek treatment. We’re ready to offer a customized solution that is noninvasive and comfortable. To learn more about our solutions for serious disorders, including chronic snoring, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.