Do you always feel tired even after sleeping for more than eight hours? Has your partner complained about loud snoring coming from your side of the bed? If so, you may have a condition called sleep apnea, which interferes with your ability to get a good night’s rest. Since National Sleep Awareness Week (March 14-21) is coming up, now is the perfect time to talk about the importance of getting enough sleep, and why, if you need it, you should get sleep apnea treatment in Calimesa as soon as possible.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a potentially dangerous sleep disorder wherein breathing stops and starts repeatedly. The most common form of the condition, called obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax, blocking the airway. Once your brain notices that you’re not getting enough oxygen, it wakes you up in an attempt to get more. Often, you’ll wake up with a gasping, snorting, or choking sound. Although you may not remember these instances, they can happen up to 30 times in one hour.
Signs & Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Extremely loud snoring in Calimesa is a classic sign of sleep apnea, but it’s far from the only one. Other symptoms to watch out for include:
- Excessive daytime drowsiness
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Gasping or choking in the middle of the night
- Waking up with a headache or sore throat
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your doctor as soon as you can.
Why You Should Get Sleep Apnea Treated Right Away
Waking up several times throughout the night can prevent you from reaching the deeper, more restful stages of sleep. As a result, you feel exhausted no matter how much sleep you think you got. You may find it harder to focus when you’re at work, potentially jeopardizing your career. You’re also at a higher risk of falling asleep while driving, which could put lives in danger!
Untreated sleep apnea can also increase your risk of developing other health complications, including:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Congestive heart failure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Complications during surgical procedures
Traditionally, sleep apnea is treated with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which delivers a steady stream of air through a mask to open your airways. However, many people find CPAP machines loud and the masks uncomfortable.
Fortunately, your dentist might be able to help. Many dentists can create a personalized oral appliance (also called a “snoreguard”) that comfortably repositions your jaw as you sleep, preventing airway obstruction.
Getting a good night’s sleep can improve so much more than your mood. Receiving sleep apnea treatment in Calimesa when you need it could literally save your life!
About the Author
Dr. Scott Parker earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2008 from Loma Linda University. He prioritizes patient comfort and understands the importance of getting high-quality sleep. That’s why he makes custom oral appliances to help you achieve the restful sleep you deserve. To learn more about how to get better sleep, visit Dr. Parker’s website or call 909-795-6019.