Do I Have Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder where the breathing of the person gets interrupted repeatedly. It is a disease that affects toddlers, children, and adults. Radiant Dental Care is an equipped dentistry that can treat sleep apnea with special care. 

Signs That You May Have Sleep Apnea

• While sleeping, you may snore aloud and may stop breathing while you sleep.
• You may experience cognitive impairment like irritability and forgetfulness.
• You may wake up in between your sleep because of choking, gasping, or shortness of breath. 
• You may have soreness in the throat and dryness in the mouth when you wake up. 
• You may experience insomnia and hypersomnia.

What Are the Types of Sleep Apnea and What Causes them? 

There are two major types of sleep apnea, which are referred to as obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. The primary cause of obstructive sleep apnea is the blockage of airways. The soft tissue in the throat relaxes while you are sleeping. Central sleep apnea is caused by a dysfunction in the central nervous system. People who have experienced stroke or neuromuscular diseases have a greater chance of having central sleep apnea. 

What Complications Can Sleep Apnea Bring?

Sleep apnea can cause various diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease if not treated at the right time. It could also increase the chances of stroke and heart attack in people. 

Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Conservative treatments

Conservative treatments are advised to patients who have mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea. Depending on the condition, the patients are provided nasal spray, sleeping pills, and wedge pillows that can help improve their airflow. 

Mechanical Therapy

Mechanical therapy, which is also known as positive airway pressure therapy, is a treatment advised to people who experience obstructive sleep apnea. Various types of airway pressure devices can be used depending on the needs of the patient. 

Mandibular Advancement Devices

It is a dental appliance that is worn to prevent the tongue from blocking the throat. It helps to keep the airway open while sleeping. 

Surgery

There are various surgeries like somnoplasty, tonsillectomy, and nasal surgery, which help to treat sleep apnea. The type of surgery depends on the condition of each patient. Surgery is suggested by dentists for people who have malformed tissue that obstructs the airflow through the nose or throat while sleeping.

Radiant Dental Care, located in Pasadena, TX, has expert dentists who can provide the best treatment for sleep apnea. Call us at (281) 991-6530 and book an appointment with the dentistry to know more treatments and receive a complete dental checkup.