Do You Have Trouble Sleeping?

Do you have trouble sleeping? Do you often feel exhausted during the day? Over ten million people in the United States suffer from a disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. There are a wide range of symptoms and health complications related to OSA. Fortunately, treatment is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea

Question: What causes OSA?

Answer: Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when breathing become obstructed during sleep. The air blockage may occur when the soft tissues in the back of the throat become overly relaxed and collapse. Possible risk factors include neck size, alcohol consumption, gender, age, and weight. People often have no idea they stop breathing during sleep and that the brain wakes them up briefly to start breathing again.

Question: How do I know if this is the cause of my sleep troubles?

Answer: Possible symptoms of sleep apnea may include persistent and loud snoring, depression, feeling tired during the day even though you think you slept well the night before, and waking up choking or gasping for air. If you think you may have a sleep disorder then see a professional for a thorough diagnosis.

Question: What can I do?

Answer: You can take steps in your day-to-day life to help reduce symptoms. We may suggest losing weight, sleeping on your side instead of your back, and keeping your bedroom dark and cool. You should also maintain a regular sleep schedule, waking and going to bed at the same times every day, even weekends.

Question: How will the doctor treat the issue?

Answer: The doctor may actually suggest an oral appliance. The splint will look like a nightguard and will gently reposition the jaw to keep airways from becoming obstructed when you sleep.

ABOUT YOUR MORENO VALLEY, CA, DENTISTS:

today at (951) 697-6800. We are also happy to welcome patients from Riverside, Temecula, Corona, and surrounding areas.