Sleep Apnea
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition marked by abnormal breathing during sleep. People with sleep apnea have multiple extended pauses in breath when they are asleep. These temporary lapses of breath result in lower-quality sleep and also negatively impact the body’s supply of oxygen, leading to potentially serious health consequences.
What are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders in the United States. It is estimated to affect between 2-9% of adults in the United States, but many cases are believed to go undiagnosed. One of the reasons why sleep apnea is so difficult to diagnose is because the symptoms only occur when someone is asleep. Snoring is one of the most common symptoms of a sleep apnea disorder, but there are other signs you may notice during your waking hours. Sleep apnea can lead to sleep deprivation from constant nightly interruptions and shallower overall sleep. Lack of sleep is associated with far-reaching health consequences that affect a person physically, mentally, and emotionally. Its no surprise that sleep apnea has been tied to diverse health problems. Because of the dangers associated with sleep apnea, contact us immediately if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Disrupted breathing in which a person’s respiration can become labored or even stop for up to a minute at a time
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Irritability
- Limited attention span or difficulty thinking clearly
Custom Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
If you’re familiar with sleep apnea, you’re probably familiar with continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP). However, many people who use a CPAP machine to address their sleep apnea find it difficult to comply with the treatment. CPAP machines may be noisy and uncomfortable. As an alternative to CPAPs as a treatment for sleep apnea, Dr. Ward offers custom oral appliances that are designed to keep the airway open while you sleep and are less invasive than CPAPs. Getting the right treatment that you can use with consistency will help you receive a more quality sleep and feel better during the day, leading to an overall better quality of life.
Southern Dental Associates is Now Welcoming New Patients
Be sure to contact Southern Dental Associates in Lewisville, Lexington, or Wilkesboro, NC to schedule an appointment today.
