Nighttime Health Tip: Sleep Apnea Could Be Affecting Your Day!
Sleep apnea is a medical disorder which causes your breathing to stop for a few seconds several times during the night. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is caused when the breathing muscles do not receive necessary information from the brain, and should be treated by your doctor. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is much more common, occurs when soft tissues in the mouth over relax and block proper airflow while lying down. This is an area where Frankel Dentistry can help your overall health.
The most common nighttime symptom of OSA sleep apnea is loud and chronic snoring. Other symptoms that occur during your sleeping hours include choking or gasping for air, longer than normal pauses between breaths, and restlessness.
Daytime symptoms that may indicate sleep apnea include:
- Waking in the morning with a headache, dry mouth, or sore throat
- Excessive sleepiness during the day
- Mood changes including depression or anger
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor right away. If you are diagnosed with OSA, Frankel Dentistry can work with you to find the most effective sleep apnea treatment for you.
Sleep Apnea Risk Factors
Sleep apnea could be linked to a family history of the disorder or a genetic factor such as narrow airways. Allergies or chronic congestion can also be culprits. The leading risk factors for OSA include:
- Being over your ideal weight
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Narcotic or excessive sleep aid use
- Use of tobacco products
- Metabolic syndrome
- Diabetes
Sleep apnea is more common in men than in women, and the risks increase with age. However, anyone can suffer from sleep apnea. If you are experiencing symptoms, you should discuss them with a doctor as soon as possible, because if left untreated, the consequences of sleep apnea can be severe: significant cognitive disruptions, as well as increasing your risk for hypertension, heart disease, and other serious medical conditions could occur. All of us here at Frankel Dentistry want to help your overall health. Call us today!!
