If you have sleep apnea, those who are within earshot of you at night probably aren’t thrilled with your loud snoring. Your friends, family, and coworkers may be bothered by your irritability, your inability to focus, and your daytime fatigue.
As damaging as the disorder can be to your personal relationships, it can do much scarier things to your body. Research has linked it to high blood pressure, diabetes, and other harmful effects on your health. Sleep apnea sufferers are also more likely to fall asleep while driving, which is obviously dangerous. Fortunately, we can treat sleep apnea and improve your overall wellness.
To schedule a free sleep apnea consultation at our Cincinnati, OH office, call Bell Dental Group today at 513-802-9440.
The Airway Is the Issue
While there are two types of sleep apnea, the most common is obstructive sleep apnea. It occurs when tissue in your throat relaxes to the point where it blocks your airway while you’re sleeping. This causes you to gasp for breath, which briefly interrupts your sleep. Because this can occur up to hundreds of time a night, you’ll get very little truly restful sleep.
There are two commonly prescribed methods to treat sleep apnea, both of which work by keeping your airway unobstructed. They are:
- CPAP Machine – CPAPs have a mask that covers part of your face. You breathe in pressurized air through the mask, which keeps your airway open.
- Oral Appliance – An appliance usually resembles a sports mouthguard. Like a mouthguard, it fits inside your mouth. It shifts your jaw forward, which keeps the airway clear.
How Do You Know If You Have Sleep Apnea?
Anyone can have sleep apnea, even young children. However, it is most common in older males. The most common risk factor for the condition is being overweight. It is also most often found in those with a family history of snoring and/or apnea. You should seek help if you are experiencing these symptoms:
- Chronic loud snoring
- Frequent headaches
- Waking up and not feeling rested
- Daytime fatigue and fogginess
CPAP vs. Oral Appliance: Factors to Consider
A CPAP and an appliance are both typically effective for mild to moderate cases of apnea. However many sleep apnea sufferers prefer the appliance because they find it:
- Less Distracting – Without a mask or tubing, an appliance is easier to adjust to than a CPAP. Unlike a CPAP, an appliance makes no noise. It is less distracting for both you and your bed partner.
- More Comfortable – A CPAP’s mask puts pressure on your face. And the pressurized air can dry out your mouth and throat. We can fit you for a custom-made appliance. This ensures a comfortable fit.
- More Portable – An appliance fits into your hand, which means it’s easy to take with you wherever you go. You won’t need electricity or batteries for it, which means you can use it virtually anywhere.
Even those who suffer from severe sleep apnea sometimes wear an appliance while using a CPAP. This can allow you to use lower and more comfortable settings.
Let us treat sleep apnea so you’ll feel better and enjoy better health! Call us today at 513-802-9440.