About Sleep Apnea
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea (also known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea or OSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and decreased oxygen levels in the body. This can happen many times a minute to hundreds of times per night. OSA can cause symptoms like loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and frequent awakenings during the night. It is a serious condition that requires diagnosis and appropriate treatment to improve sleep quality and prevent potential health complications.
Snoring is a Nuisance, But Sleep Apnea is Life-Threatening
Did you know that 80% of people with Sleep Apnea go undiagnosed? Millions of people ignore their problem, thinking it’s “only snoring”. However, if Sleep Apnea is left untreated can increase risk of a variety of health issues. There are many signs to look for if you suspect you may have Sleep Apnea. If you recognize some of these symptoms, we’re here to help guide you through the journey to getting better sleep.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include:
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Loud snoring
Observed episodes of breathing cessation during sleep
Abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking
Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat
Morning headache
Difficulty concentrating during the day
Experiencing mood changes, such as depression or irritability
High blood pressure
Nighttime sweating
Decreased libido
Do you think you may have Sleep Apnea?
This is not a diagnosis or a prescription.
Complete this Sleep Apnea Screening Quiz and bring it with you to your first appointment to discuss the results with our dental-sleep experts.
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Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
If OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) is left untreated, it can lead to a variety of health risks. These risks include, but are not limited to increased risk of:
Stroke
Primary or secondary hypertension
Coronary artery disease
Cardiac arrhythmia
Congestive heart failure
Poor sleep
Memory loss
Mood disturbance
Daytime sleepiness
Motor vehicle accidents
Loud snoring
Type II diabetes
Obesity
Glaucoma
Gastroesophageal Reflux disease (GERD)
Sexual dysfunction (loss of libido)
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