Every morning, millions of individuals wake up feeling tired. Some wake with headaches, while most feel overwhelming fatigue. Sleep apnea is a major undiagnosed sleep disorder preventing restful sleep for an estimated 22 million Americans. If you wake feeling tired after what should be a restful sleep, you may be suffering from sleep apnea.
While you sleep, your muscles relax. Your tongue and muscles in the upper airway become slack and may obstruct your airway. When this happens, oxygen is prevented from getting to your brain, which sends a signal for you to wake up. You gasp for air and go back to sleep. This can happen a few times or hundreds of times every time you sleep.
Treatment for sleep apnea begins with an accurate diagnosis. Once you have been diagnosed, the most effective treatment plan can be put in place to help you get a full, restful night’s sleep. Mild cases of sleep apnea may be addressed with an oral appliance. This device prevents relaxed muscle obstruction by holding your lower jaw in a slightly forward position. You are now able to breathe freely while you sleep.
More severe cases of the condition may call for additional help through the use of a sleep therapy machine. The continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is the most common of these. It provides a constant flow of air through your upper airway to prevent muscle obstruction during sleep.
Testing may be required to determine the extent of your sleep apnea. After a thorough examination and testing, your doctor will make a recommendation regarding the most effective method for treating your condition.
Relief From Snoring
Most people who snore are not aware they have the problem, but others around them may be acutely aware of it. When muscles in your soft palate, throat and tongue relax, they may vibrate as you breathe, causing you to snore. Most people will snore at some point in their life. Alcohol consumption, obesity, allergies and cold symptoms can cause snoring. The anatomy of your mouth and sinuses can also be a factor.
Snoring can be a problem for you and your partner, but treatment can remedy the situation. Some individuals who snore also suffer from sleep apnea, but not all. Accurate diagnosis is necessary for effective treatment. You can find out more about snoring and sleep apnea by scheduling a consultation with Buford Family Dental. Contact our office today to make your appointment with us.