Learn The Warning Signs Of Sleep Apnea And How Your Dentist Can Help

Posted on: 11 September 2015

Sleep apnea is a condition in which you may have long pauses in breathing while you are asleep. Sometimes these pauses can last for a few seconds and other times they may last for minutes. This disturbed breathing pattern throughout the night can lead to you feeling tired during the day. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe problems such as high blood pressure, depression and even heart failure. This article will help you recognize the signs of sleep apnea and learn how your dentist can help.

Signs that you may suffer from sleep apnea

Your partner notices a problem: Many people find out they have sleep apnea from their partner. If your partner tells you that they have been noticing you seem to go for long periods without breathing in your sleep, or they notice that you gasp for air suddenly, then you may have a problem.

You wake up with headaches: The loss of oxygen you experience during your sleep can cause you to wake up with headaches. These headaches will seem to go away after you have been awake for a while if they are indeed caused by sleep apnea.

You gasp for air: Waking up finding that you are having a hard time catching your breath is another indication that you are experiencing sleep apnea.

Inability to focus: When you don't get a good night's sleep, it can cause you to have a problem focusing your attention properly during the daytime. While many things can also cause this, if you notice it in combination with other symptoms, then you want to consider getting examined for the possibility of sleep apnea.

Snoring: While low snoring can be normal, you should consider loud snoring to be a red flag that you may have a more serious problem you should have checked out.

How can your dentist help treat your sleep apnea

If you feel you may have a problem with sleep apnea, you should make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. The dentist may be able to fit you for a dental appliance you can wear in your sleep. This appliance looks much like an athletic mouthguard. However, it is designed to keep your jaws and tongue in certain positions that help you to breathe correctly in your sleep.

If you feel there is a chance that you could have sleep apnea, you should get in to see your dentist right away. This way, you can get the proper treatment and start enjoying a good night's sleep.

For more information, contact a dental office such as Sunshine Dentistry.

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