Sleep apnea is a common yet serious sleep disorder that can have significant impacts on your health and quality of life. Understanding its symptoms is the first step towards getting the help you need. Let's delve into the world of sleep apnea and its symptoms.
Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur 30 or more times per hour. Essentially, the brain and the rest of the body may not get enough oxygen.
There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the more common form, which is caused by a blockage of the airway, usually when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep; and central sleep apnea, which occurs when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe.
The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can lead to various health problems if left untreated. These include hypertension, heart disease, stroke, pre-diabetes and diabetes, and depression.
Moreover, untreated sleep apnea can be responsible for poor performance in everyday activities, such as at work and school, motor vehicle crashes, and academic underachievement in children and adolescents.
If you suspect that you or a loved one may be suffering from sleep apnea, it is critical to seek medical attention. Diagnosis usually involves a sleep study, either at a sleep disorder center or at home.
Your healthcare provider will evaluate your symptoms and medical history. They may also examine your throat, mouth, and nose for extra tissue or other abnormalities.
Treatment for sleep apnea depends on the severity of the condition. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, quitting smoking, or avoiding alcohol and sedatives, are often the first line of treatment.
Other treatment options include continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, oral appliances designed to keep the airway open, and surgery.
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, don't hesitate to seek help. At Kinard Family Dental, we're committed to helping our patients in Helotes, TX, achieve better sleep and improved overall health. Contact us today at (210) 695-1200 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sarah Kinard.
