Over 22 million Americans suffer from some form of sleep apnea, which means they’re unable to enjoy the benefits of a full night of sleep. If you’re currently dealing with this condition, does it have to be treated, or will the symptoms subside on their own over time? If not, what can be done to restore your normal health? As you read further, a local sleep dentist weighs in with some expert input on how sleep apnea in Huber Heights can be successfully treated!
What is Sleep Apnea?
People who suffer from sleep apnea experience frequent interruptions in their breathing throughout the night. With each occurrence, a distress signal is sent from the brain that causes them to awaken. Because these breaks in sleep can occur so often, the person dealing with this condition may experience daytime lethargy, difficulty concentrating, morning headaches, lost libido, throat soreness and several other indicators of sleep apnea.
The most common type of the condition that people face is obstructive sleep apnea, which refers to a partial blockage of the airway that contributes to loud snoring as oxygen struggles to pass through the throat. The problem can be brought on by the following:
- The throat muscles relaxing while sleeping
- Increased neck girth typically associated with weight gain
- The tongue falling to the back of the mouth and partially obstructing the airway
Will the Symptoms Go Away?
To regain a since of normalcy, sleep apnea must be treated by a trained professional. That’s because the symptoms won’t right themselves. Instead, if the condition is ignored, you can typically expect the problem to worsen. This can eventually be life-threatening, as unaddressed sleep apnea can lead to hypertension, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease and other undesirable outcomes. If you’ve noticed any of the previously listed warning signs, it’s imperative to be examined, diagnosed and treated.
How Can Sleep Apnea be Treated?
For most patients, wearing a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine at night is the first step toward treating sleep apnea. While it’s an effective form of therapy, some patients find the apparatus, which consists of a base unit, tube and mask, to be cumbersome and uncomfortable. Thankfully, there are other options, one of which is the Somnodent oral appliance. The custom-designed device allows for a comfortable and uninterrupted night of sleep by slightly shifting the jawbone forward to keep the airway open.
If you’ve been missing out on the vital sleep your mind and body need, then it’s time to take action. Contact your dentist in Huber Heights today to request a visit so you can finally rest peacefully!
About the Author
Dr. James Striebel earned his dental degree from Case Western Reserve Dental School in Cleveland. Throughout his career, he has utilized his vast knowledge to provide comprehensive care for his patients, which includes treating sleep apnea. A member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, Dr. Striebel helps patients get the rest they need at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.