Do I Have Sleep Apnea

Sometimes, the identification of specific symptoms is necessary in an effort to diagnose sleep apnea. Frequent manifestations encompass audible snoring, sleep-related respiratory disruptions, excessive diurnal vertigo, morning migraines, impaired concentration, and irritability. Additional symptoms that may become apparent upon awakening include frequent urination, dry mouth or irritated pharynx, and restless nighttime sleep. As soon as possible after developing any suspicion that these symptoms could be indicative of sleep apnea, you must schedule an evaluation with a qualified professional. By employing the expertise of a sleep specialist to perform a sleep study, it is feasible to ascertain a definitive diagnosis and obtain recommendations regarding appropriate treatment options to effectively manage this sleep disorder.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea, as its nomenclature implies, is a sleep disorder distinguished by recurring instances of insufficient or nonexistent respiration that occur throughout the nocturnal period. The consistent manifestation of these intervals, referred to as apneas, during the nighttime perturbs the established sleep cycle. Obstructive sleep apnea, characterised by constriction of the airways due to flaccid pharynx muscles, and central sleep apnea, stemming from the brain’s inability to transmit appropriate signals to the muscles responsible for respiration, are the two main classifications of sleep apnea. Frequent manifestations encompass disturbances in nocturnal sleep cycles, sudden incidents of awakening in the morning, morning migraines, excessive daytime fatigue, and difficulties maintaining cognitive focus. Neglecting to attend to sleep apnea may lead to various detrimental health outcomes, such as myocardial complications, arrhythmias, and disruptions in the circadian rhythm. To achieve optimal sleep quality and overall health while managing sleep apnea effectively, it is critical to seek medical evaluation and treatment.

“Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where patients have something blocking (or obstructing) part or all of their upper airway in their sleep, forcing the diaphragm and chest muscles to work harder to pull air into the lungs.”

Sleep Apnea and Other Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, have negative health effects:

Daytime fatigue is a consequence of sleep apnea, which manifests as breathing interruptions.
Daytime lethargy brought on by insomnia.
Narcolepsy is characterised by daytime lethargy and muscle weakness.
RLS: Sleep disturbances and pain induced by leg movement.
Episodes of sleepwalking, night terrors, and REM sleep behaviour disorder are symptoms of insomnia that contribute to disrupted sleep patterns.
Shift work sleep disorder is a medical condition distinguished by challenges initiating sleep or maintaining consciousness as a result of non-standard work schedules.
Acquiring understanding regarding these sleep disorders enables the detection, control, and improvement of sleep quality and general well-being.

“There are several different types of sleep disorders.”

Causes of Sleep Apnea

Treating Sleep Apnea

Treatment for sleep apnea typically includes:

Lifestyle changes include weight loss, resting posture adjustments, and abstinence from sedatives and alcohol before bed.
CPAP: Maintains open airways during sleep with continual breathing.
Dental appliances adjust the mandible to keep the airway clear when sleeping.
Surgical techniques fix anatomical abnormalities or widen airways in severe obstructions.
Alternative therapies: Possible possibilities are positional treatment or nerve stimulation.
These treatments aim to reduce sleep apnea symptoms, enhance sleep quality, and reduce health risks.

“Affinity Family Dentists can help patients determine which treatment is right for them.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I still travel if I have sleep apnea?

A. Yes, you can still travel safely with sleep apnea. For best results, you should take your CPAP machine and other dental appliances with you—particularly on any trips that will take longer than one or two days.

Q. Are there any risks associated with untreated sleep apnea?

A. There is a direct correlation between sleep apnea and other health issues, like high blood pressure. Constantly waking up in the middle of the night puts stress on your body, causing the hormone systems to work overtime and increase blood pressure. The low oxygen and stress associated with sleep apnea are also related to heart disease.

Q. Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?

A. No. Snoring is very common. However, snoring that wakes you up in the middle of the night can be a sign of sleep apnea. Snoring associated with sleep apnea also tends to be deeper, louder, and more consistent. It may also be interrupted with gasps, choking, or pauses. Patients should see a doctor if they experience a combination of any of these symptoms.

Q. How common is sleep apnea?

A. The American Sleep Apnea Association estimates that over 20 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. Furthermore, they estimate that as much as 80 percent of moderate and severe cases of obstructive sleep apnea are undiagnosed.

Q. Can sleep apnea be cured?

A. Unfortunately, no. However, there are many different ways you can minimize and manage the symptoms of sleep apnea.

Dental Terminology

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person’s teeth, gums and/or bite.

Decay

Tooth decay is when the enamel of the tooth begins to decay and cause erosion from plaque and tartar on the teeth.

Dental Caries

Dental caries are also known as cavities and result from a lack of proper oral hygiene leaving plaque that forms tiny holes in the teeth.

Dental Checkup

A dental checkup is an appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months in the office.

Dental Filling

A dental filling involves restoring the structure of the tooth by using metal, alloy, porcelain or plastic to fill the tooth.

Dental Prophylaxis

A dental prophylaxis is a professional and detailed cleaning that involves the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the teeth.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants contain a resinous material that we apply to the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth to prevent dental caries.

Dentist

A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue that results from plaque, other infections in the mouth and poor oral hygiene.

Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry is the dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health in order to prevent the spread of plaque, the formation of tartar and infections in the mouth.

Tartar

Tartar forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that is much more difficult to remove and will require professional treatment.

Tooth Enamel

Learn More Today

Treating sleep apnea can improve your overall dental health and quality of life. We at Viva Smiles Family Dental may be able to help.

Helpful Related Links

American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2023
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2023
WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2023

About our business and website security

Affinity Family Dental was established in 2022.
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We serve patients from the following cities: Shelbyville, Fairland, Morristown, New Palestine, Rushville, St Paul, Franklin, Greensburg, Connersville, and Batesville
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