Snoring can be a source of embarrassment, and it can prevent your bed partner from getting a good night’s sleep. But it is also indicative of a much more serious condition called sleep apnea. The National Institutes of Health estimate that roughly 12 million Americans have sleep apnea, although many of these cases are never properly diagnosed and treated. This is very problematic, since sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues when it goes untreated.
If you believe you may be suffering from sleep apnea, it is important to seek treatment at once. Dr. Michael Negru understands the serious risks associated with this condition, and he can help you get the relief you need. Please call today to schedule a consultation at our Beaverton dentistry office.
WHAT IS SLEEP APNEA?
Sleep apnea is a condition associated with short, repeated interruptions in breathing while you sleep. In order to resume the breathing process, your brain wakes you from your sleep. This process can occur hundreds of times a night without you realizing it. Often, this lack of restful sleep leads to chronic fatigue while you are awake.
The most common form of the condition is called obstructive sleep apnea. It is occurs when the soft tissue in your throat collapses and blocks your airway. As a result, your brain and heart do not receive a sufficient supply of oxygen while you are sleeping. This may increase your risk of serious health issues such as:
Heart attack
Stroke
Diabetes
Cardiac arrhythmia
High blood pressure
Fibromyalgia
Depression
Gastric reflux
SLEEP APNEA SYMPTOMS
While loud snoring is by far the most common sleep apnea symptom, there are other warning signs that you may be suffering from this serious condition. These include:
Morning headaches
Dry mouth or sore throat
Daytime sleepiness
Problems with short term memory
Waking up with a choking or gasping sensation
Concentration issues
Chronic fatigue
Decreased sex drive
Insomnia
Weight gain
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important that you visit Dr. Negru at once for a sleep apnea evaluation.
SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT
Dr. Michael Negru will perform a thorough sleep evaluation to assess the severity and cause of your condition. For mild cases of sleep apnea, treatment may consist of minor lifestyle adjustments such as changing sleeping positions, reducing alcohol intake, and losing weight.
For more serious cases, Dr. Negru may recommend one of the following sleep apnea treatment options:
DNA appliance therapy
SomnoMed sleep appliance
If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea, please contact Bright Smile Dental Care today to schedule your initial consultation. Dr. Michael Negru serves patients in Beaverton, Aloha, and Hillsboro, Oregon.
