How To Recognize Sleep Apnea

cleveland sleep apnea

Without treatment, sleep apnea not only leaves you feeling exhausted, but strains your immune system and even your heart health. Which is why recognizing and seeking treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is so important. In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist talks about warning signs and treatment options.

The Causes of OSA

OSA is a very serious disorder, and one that impacts millions of people. The disorder means that as you rest, the soft tissues in the back of your mouth and in your throat collapse and cut off airflow. You stop breathing for brief periods until the brain wakes you to resume. This could interrupt your sleep cycle hundreds of times in a single night, even if you don’t remember this occurring. As a result, you’re often exhausted during the day and could experience strains on your immune system and heart health. Common causes range from a large neck circumference and sinus issues, to allergy concerns and deviated septum. Obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and factors with the growth and development of your throat and mouth could also be factors.

The Common Warning Signs

You may experience chronic snoring, and could find yourself waking up gasping for air or choking in the night. You may wake with a dry mouth and feel irritable throughout the day. Being tired even though you assume you slept well is common, as is having trouble focusing on your workload or school tasks. When you experience one or more of these potential warning signs, we urge you to let us know right away. Our team can offer a diagnosis and provide the most appropriate treatment option to offer OSA relief.

The Dangers of Untreated OSA

Without treatment, this could impact how you interact with people, and could leave you exhausted. The stress on your immune system means you’re more vulnerable to illness. In addition, the strain on your cardiovascular system could lead you more vulnerable to high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke or heart attack.

Noninvasive Treatment with Oral Appliances

To offer relief without relying on a CPAP machine, our team could employ an oral appliance. The device is custom-made based on detailed impressions we take of your smile. The resulting appliance looks and fits like a simple mouthguard, but repositions your jaw to prevent the collapse of soft tissues, so you avoid OSA symptoms. If you have any questions about how we diagnose and treat issues like OSA, then contact our team to learn more.

Talk To Your Cleveland, TX Dentist About Treating Sleep Apnea

Our team wants to help you enjoy a good night’s rest again. For more information on boosting how well you sleep, then contact your Cleveland, TX, dentist, Dr. Uhrenholdt, by calling (281) 592-1234.