If you’re always tired no matter how long you sleep, something more serious could be going on.
Sleep apnea is a condition that disrupts your breathing while you sleep and can seriously affect your overall health. At Accelerated Dental in Las Vegas, NV, we offer trusted treatment options that help you get the rest your body needs. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward better sleep.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea happens when your breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. This disruption can prevent your brain and body from getting enough oxygen, leading to daytime fatigue and health concerns. It affects your sleep more than you may realize.
- Interrupted breathing patterns: Airflow stops multiple times per night, often without you knowing.
- Chronic fatigue: Feeling tired or sluggish during the day despite hours of sleep.
- Ongoing health concerns: Increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and more.
Types Of Sleep Apnea
There are three main types of sleep apnea, and each one has a different cause. Knowing which type you have helps your dental care provider recommend the right approach. An accurate diagnosis is essential.
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): Throat muscles collapse during sleep, blocking airflow to the lungs.
- Central sleep apnea: Brain fails to signal the breathing muscles properly, disrupting rhythm.
- Complex sleep apnea syndrome: A combination of both physical and neurological causes.
Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea
You may not realize you have sleep apnea until someone else notices the signs. However, there are symptoms you can spot on your own that signal poor-quality sleep. These changes should not be overlooked.
- Loud snoring: Often includes choking, gasping, or silent breathing pauses.
- Morning headaches: Caused by poor oxygen flow during the night.
- Mood changes: Daytime irritability, anxiety, or trouble concentrating.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
Diagnosing sleep apnea usually involves tracking your breathing and oxygen levels during sleep. This can be done at a clinic or in the comfort of your own home. The data collected helps guide your care.
- Sleep studies: Overnight monitoring in a sleep center that captures detailed sleep data.
- Home sleep testing kits: Comfortable, take-home devices that record breathing patterns.
- Data analysis: Helps determine the frequency and severity of breathing interruptions.
Risk Factors For Sleep Apnea
Several personal and health-related factors can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea. Understanding these risks can help you catch symptoms earlier and take proactive steps. Some are preventable, while others may be genetic.
- Excess weight: Added pressure on the airway increases the chance of obstruction.
- Age and gender: Men over 40 have a higher likelihood of developing the condition.
- Nasal issues: Chronic congestion or a deviated septum can make nighttime breathing difficult.
Health Risks Of Untreated Sleep Apnea
When left untreated, sleep apnea can affect more than just your rest. It may contribute to long-term medical problems that lower your quality of life. Getting care early can help prevent future issues.
- Heart problems: Elevates the risk of stroke, heart failure, and irregular heartbeat.
- Diabetes: Poor sleep disrupts blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity.
- Mental performance: Contributes to forgetfulness, reduced focus, and slower reaction time.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea treatment aims to restore your breathing and help you wake up feeling rested. Treatment plans may include behavior changes, dental appliances, or referrals to a sleep specialist. The right solution depends on your unique needs.
- Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, quitting smoking, and sleep position adjustments.
- Non-invasive options: Alternatives to CPAP machines that are quieter and easier to use.
- Custom appliances: Oral devices that shift your jaw forward to keep airways open.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliances are a popular choice for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea. These small devices gently reposition your jaw to improve airflow as you sleep. They’re easy to use and travel with.
- Custom fit: Made just for your bite to ensure comfort and proper positioning.
- Quiet and portable: No noise, cords, or bulky equipment, which makes them great for travel.
- High patient satisfaction: Easier to wear consistently than CPAP, leading to better outcomes.
Wake Up To A Better You
You don’t have to live with fatigue, snoring, and disrupted sleep. With help from the trusted providers at Accelerated Dental in Las Vegas, NV, you can finally enjoy rest that restores your body and mind. Every patient deserves to feel refreshed, clear-headed, and full of energy. Schedule your visit today and let’s work together to help you breathe easier and sleep better.
