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Sleep Apnea

Over 12 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. If you have sleep apnea, then your breathing can stop at least 20-30 times each hour. Every time your breathing comes to a halt, then lessened amount of oxygen sends a brain signal to restart your breathing, which may be difficult to remember since the moment is so abrupt. Due to the constant wake-sleep cycle, most people with sleep apnea constantly feel sleepy day-to-day.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Do you ever feel fatigued throughout the day, snore loudly, or wake up in the middle of the night? If you are experiencing any of the previous symptoms as well as those provided below, then you are not alone. If you notice one or more of the listed symptoms, contact Smile Reston Heights today and schedule an appointment with one of our dentists.

  • Insomnia
  • Loud snoring
  • Morning headaches
  • Waking up in the middle of the night with shortness of breath
  • Severe drowsiness
  • Snorting or choking while you sleep (indication of your breathing restarting)
  • Sudden and unintentional falling asleep

The Three Types of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Obstructive sleep apnea is one of the most common types of sleep apnea experienced commonly with females, older adults aged 40 & up, young adults, and children. This type of sleep apnea occurs when there’s a physical blockage caused by soft tissue that has collapsed deep in the back of the throat. The risk factors that influence OSA are those who are overweight, smoke, drink, utilize sedatives or tranquilizers, and the families with a history of it.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

Central sleep apnea is one of the less common types experienced. Individuals with the type of sleep apnea experience a halt in their breath due to their muscles not receiving the signals that allow their brain to properly function. The people that are more likely to experience central sleep apnea are commonly males with a heart disorder, neuromuscular disorder, previous experience with strokes, or brain tumors.

Mixed or Complex Sleep Apnea

Mixed or complex sleep apnea is when individuals experience a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea. Individuals of all ages and genders can experience sleep apnea, so if you believe you or your loved one has sleep apnea, contact a consultation with a dentist at Smile Reston Heights to receive treatment.

What Are they Dangers of Sleep Apnea?

When sleep apnea isn’t treated properly or neglected entirely, it may lead to dangerous situations that could even be fatal. If you think you or anyone in your family has sleep apnea, contact your dentist before continuing any prescribed medicine and surgery. Here are the various dangers that sleep apnea can pose if left untreated:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart failure
  • Stroke
  • Constant fatigue
  • Hazardous driving
  • Medication and surgery complications
  • Negative reactions to anesthesia

Sleep Apnea Treatments

Sleep apnea treatments may vary patient-to-patient. Some patients may require behavioral treatment, which is when a dentist may ask an at-risk patient to lose weight, cease all smoking habits, and avoid sleeping on your back. At Smile Reston Heights, your dentist may prescribe you an oral device to prevent your throat from experiencing blockages allowing for a quality night’s sleep. To avoid more severe cases and potential surgery, book regular dental checkups and keep your dentist in the loop of your overall health. As our top priority is you, our dentists will provide the proper recommendations or even refer you to a sleep apnea expert.

If you or your loved ones are suffering from sleep apnea, contact Smile Reston Heights to consult with your dentist and receive treatment.

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