Do you often feel tired during the day, and also grapple with headaches and irritability? Often, the cause of our poor sleep could be obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which impacts millions of people in the United States. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist will look at the importance of treating sleep apnea symptoms.
The Causes and Symptoms of OSA
The disorder actually causes us to stop breathing for brief periods as we sleep. The cessation of breathing occurs when soft tissues in the throat and the back of the mouth collapse and block airflow. People stop breathing for brief moments until the brain wakes them. People rarely remember waking, but it happens hundreds of times each night for many people. Symptoms vary, could include chronic snoring, daytime exhaustion, trouble staying awake or concentrating on tasks during the day, dry mouth, headaches, and moodiness. Causes could include a large neck circumference, deviated septum, obesity, issues with the growth and development of the air passages and oral structures, and sinus and allergy issues.
Long-Term Health Impacts
Unless treated, this disorder could increase the risk of depression, and even strain your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illness. Over time, this disorder could even have negative impacts on your heart health, boosting the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. Treating the issue is essential, and once we perform a thorough diagnosis, we may suggest an oral appliance or possibly even changes to your resting habits.
Treating Your Poor Sleep
Often, we correct the issue with a custom oral appliance, which looks and fits much like a mouthguard. The device is crafted based on detailed impressions and images we take of your smile. The appliance is then worn as you sleep, moving the jaw forward to prevent the collapse of soft tissues and to ensure open airways as you breathe at night. You avoid symptoms, and also avoid the need for OSA treatment using the CPAP machine.
You could also help by cutting back on caffeine, going to bed and waking up at the same times every day, and keeping your bedroom dark and cool. Try to avoid vigorous exercise, large meals, or screening us right before bed too. If you have any questions about treating sleep issues, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Addressing OSA?
Our team knows the value of a good night’s rest, and is ready to help you avoid the complications of untreated OSA and chronic snoring. To learn more about treating sleep disorders and improving your oral health, then schedule a consultation by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
