Sleep apnea is a condition that affects around 39 million US adults. While there is no cure for sleep apnea, there are treatments that can reduce symptoms and improve overall sleep quality. Getting treatment for your sleep apnea can reduce your risk of various conditions and may even improve your interpersonal relationships.
Sleep apnea makes people tired, leaves them feeling grouchy, and can negatively impact relationships with sleep partners. If you are one of the millions of people suffering from sleep apnea, it’s important to seek sleep apnea treatment.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder that affects you while you sleep. People who have sleep apnea may stop breathing briefly during sleep. To start breathing again, they wake up so briefly that they don’t remember doing it.
Sleep apnea can cause problems including low oxygen in the body, gasping while sleeping, and loud snoring. People who experience sleep apnea frequently fail to get deep sleep, which can lead to daytime sleepiness and irritability.
There are two types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea wherein the airway relaxes so much that it collapses during sleep and the body is prevented from breathing
- Central sleep apnea wherein the brain fails to tell the body to breathe while sleeping
Sleep apnea puts people at risk in many ways. People who have sleep apnea are at higher risk for stroke, heart attack, and type 2 diabetes.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
Many people with sleep apnea make lifestyle changes to help improve their sleep. Avoiding drinking before bed, losing weight, and exercising can help reduce symptoms. In addition, there are treatment devices for sleep apnea as well.
CPAP Machine
A CPAP machine is a device with a mask that forces air pressure through the mask to keep the airways open. CPAP machines do work, but many people find them uncomfortable.
Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)
Oral appliance therapy like a Silent Nite sleep appliance is a less invasive way of treating obstructive sleep apnea. These oral appliances prevent the airway from collapsing. Oral appliances have a greater satisfaction rate than CPAP machines and can help patients sleep more comfortably.
Silent Nite Sleep Appliance
Silent Nite sleep appliances are comfortable oral appliances that prevent sleep apnea. These appliances shift the lower jaw to keep airways open while sleeping.
Better Sleep Means a Better You (Literally)
Sleep apnea is a danger to people who experience it, and it can cause a lot of daytime grumpiness. If your spouse is tired of listening to your snoring, sleep apnea can also get in the way of your interpersonal relationships.
CPAP and OAT devices improve sleep apnea and patient blood pressure. The dental professionals at Weninger Dentistry are here to help. To find out more about our sleep apnea treatment in Tampa FL, contact us today.