Have you been accused of snoring loudly during the night?
While that might feel embarrassing, it can also be the sign of more significant problems. Snoring is one of the telltale signs of sleep apnea, which is a dangerous sleep disorder that affects millions of Americans.
The good news is that your trusted team at McCall Family Dentistry has solutions for patients who suffer from sleep apnea.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
The most common sleep apnea is called obstructive sleep apnea. With this condition, your airway is blocked during the night while you sleep. The lack of oxygen signals your brain to wake you up, and this can happen multiple times during the night.
Though you may not even be aware you’re waking up during the night, your body is suffering the effects of sleep apnea. Without a good night’s rest, your body can’t rejuvenate and recharge, and the lack of oxygen can affect your vital organs.
The Effects of Sleep Apnea
Many people with sleep apnea are not aware that they have the condition. There are, however, some signs that can point to sleep apnea.
Patients who suffer from sleep apnea may:
- Wake up frequently with headaches
- Have a hard time focusing or concentrating during the day
- Suffer from insomnia
- Snore loudly during the night
- Suffer from chronic fatigue
If left untreated, sleep apnea contributes to other serious health concerns such as high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure.
How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?
The standard of care for treating sleep apnea is CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure therapy. The problem with CPAP therapy is that it requires patients to wear a mask over their face at night while they sleep. Many patients find it uncomfortable or hard to sleep with. This is where Drs. James and Ryan McCall can help.
Patients who suffer from mild to moderate sleep apnea may benefit from wearing a customized oral appliance at night. The appliance is designed to reposition your jaw slightly forward, which opens up your airway and allows you to breath freely during the night. Each appliance is personalized for a person's specific needs, which makes it comfortable to wear at night.
Sleep apnea puts your health at risk and greatly affects the quality of your life. If you suspect that you or someone you know might suffer from sleep apnea, or you’ve already been diagnosed, we encourage you to contact our office and set up a consultation with one of our doctors to learn more about how we can help you.
A good night’s rest is just a phone call away!