How Does Sleep Apnea Impact Your Health?
With obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), millions of people have trouble sleeping and could eventually experience serious problems with their overall health. In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist will talk about how to recognize the warning signs of OSA, and how treatment could help safeguard your immune system and cardiovascular system!
The Causes and Symptoms of OSA
The disorder causes us to stop breathing several times in the night. Even if we don’t remember the cessation of breathing, this interrupts our sleep cycle and leaves us feeling exhausted the next day. With OSA, the soft tissues in the back of our mouth and in our throat becomes too relaxed and collapses during sleep, cutting off airflow completely. For some, this happens hundreds of times a night and could lead to chronic snoring, daytime exhaustion, moodiness, dry mouth, headaches, trouble concentrating, and episodes of waking suddenly in the night gasping for breath or choking. If you experience one or more of these warning signs, then please see us right away. Causes vary, but could be linked to obesity, neck circumference, sinus or allergy issues, a deviated septum, or issues with the growth and development of the jaw and oral structures.
The Impact on Your Health
Untreated OSA could increase the risk of poor memory, low oxygen levels, and even the onset of diabetes. The disorder also strains your immune system, which makes illness more frequent. The disorder places stress on your cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disese, and in some cases, heart attack or stroke. These impacts could lead to major problems for your overall health and quality of life, so treatment is essential to prevent further episodes.
Treatment with an Oral Appliance
Instead of opting for a CPAP machine, we have a more comfortable and convenient option. By taking detailed digital images of your smile, we custom-fit an oral appliance that is worn as you sleep, fitting like a mouthguard. The device then moves your jaw forward enough to prevent the collapse of soft tissues, so you breathe without interruption throughout the night. You also avoid snoring and will feel more rested during the day. If you have any questions about the causes of the disorder, or if you’ve been exhibiting common symptoms, then contact our team today. We want to make sure you not only have a healthy, bright smile, but enjoy a good night’s rest as well.
Talk To Your Cleveland, TX Dentist’s Office About Sleep Apnea
Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX is ready to help you gain a better night’s rest with a custom appliance. To find out more about improving poor sleep, then contact our office at (281) 592-1234 to schedule your appointment today.