Over 20 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, according to the American Sleep Association. Besides just feeling daytime drowsiness, sleep apnea can also have long-term effects on the body and mind. But can sleep apnea be cured for good? At Panoramic Dental, not only do we offer dental treatment, but sleep apnea therapy as well. If you think you’re suffering from sleep apnea, or you’ve just recently been diagnosed, here is what you need to know about the condition.
Emphasis What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted while sleeping for several seconds or more. The most common form of the disorder is known as obstructive sleep apnea. This occurs when a person’s throat and airway become partially or fully blocked by the tongue or neck tissue. While sleep apnea often causes sleep deprivation and drowsiness, it has also been linked to other serious health issues, such as:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Weight gain
- Anxiety/Depression
Emphasis Can Sleep Apnea Be Cured?
Unfortunately, obstructive sleep apnea is a chronic condition that does not go away on its own. Causes of OSA relate to a person’s anatomy. For example, if you tend to sleep on your back, your tongue may fall into your throat and block the airway. Other factors, such as a deviated nasal septum, narrowed nasal passageways, big tonsils, or even a large tongue, are all anatomical factors that can disrupt airflow. Weight gain can also cause OSA because more fatty tissue around the neck can block airflow.
While sleep apnea isn’t curable, the good news is that effective treatments are available to reduce your symptoms. First, oral appliance therapy (such as using a CPAP machine), can help. This can reposition the jaw to prevent the blockage of airflow. Wearing one at night can improve the quality of your sleep and reduce health risks associated with sleep apnea.
Behavioral changes can also help. Obesity can contribute to OSA, so weight loss can reduce the symptoms. Quitting smoking and limiting caffeine can also reduce sleep apnea symptoms in some cases as well. Overall, contact your dentist to see if they can help provide treatment for your sleep apnea.
Emphasis Get Sleep Apnea Relief Today!
If you think you have sleep apnea or are in need of dental care, contact Panoramic Dental today! We offer comprehensive and diverse treatments for everyone of all ages and needs! If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to our Walnut Creek, CA office! Our expert doctors and staff are here to help guide and educate all existing and potential patients. Get started with us today! We can’t wait to work with you!