It is a condition that causes brief pauses in breathing while sleeping. The intervals create partial arousal from sleep, which keeps you from getting a decent night’s sleep. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea recently, seeking sleep apnea treatment, or noticing signs of sleep apnea, here are a few frequently asked questions about the issue:
What is the cause of sleep apnea?
If your airway becomes clogged while you sleep, you may develop sleep apnea. In some patients, the tongue and throat muscles may relax, obstructing the windpipe. A large tongue or tonsils, for example, can raise your chances of getting the disease. This is also more common among overweight people.
Can dental devices help with snoring and sleep apnea?
Oral appliance therapy has been demonstrated to be quite beneficial for mild and moderate sleep apnea, as well as for patients with severe sleep apnea intolerant to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP).
These devices are also very beneficial for those who have had surgery but did not have a positive outcome. Additionally, it is better to have sleep apnea partially controlled than having no treatment at all. According to research, sleep apnea 70%, 80%, or 90% under control is preferable to being completely uncontrollable.
Are there types of sleep apnea?
There are three types of sleep apnea; namely obstructive, central, and complex sleep apnea. These all have certain key differences.
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
The (OSA) is a condition in which the airway becomes blocked, mainly by the tongue, as a result of abnormal tongue and throat muscular relaxation. A person cannot breathe if their airway is blocked. Because no breathing is taking place, the body’s oxygen level declines and the heart rate rises. This low oxygen level is risky since it can result in a stroke or heart attack. The increased heart rate is risky because it can worsen high blood pressure.
A person awakens or partially awakens gasping for air in an attempt to breathe. Because people are constantly waking up to catch their breath, they never obtain the deep, peaceful sleep that their bodies require.
What are sleep apnea symptoms?
Snoring is one of the most common signs of sleep apnea. It is vital to remember that not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. Someone who sleeps nearby may notice that your breathing stops for short periods of time throughout the night.
People with sleep apnea generally have excessive daytime tiredness and morning headaches because their sleep is disturbed. Other symptoms may include gasping for air during sleep, experiencing difficulty in staying asleep (insomnia), and awakening with a dry mouth.
How does a mouth guard for sleep apnea helps?
A dentist may recommend a mouth guard for those suffering from sleep apnea. Instead of simply covering the teeth, it keeps the airway open by pushing your lower jaw and tongue forward. Certain types of mouth guards for sleep apnea feature a strap that goes around the head and chin to re-adjust the lower jaw.
Dental Services in Chula Vista
Dr. Nick Addario offers sleep apnea treatment in Chula Vista. If you are seeking a specialist for sleep apnea, call or visit our clinic.