While snoring is often nothing more than a potentially embarrassing but otherwise harmless reflex, it can be a symptom of sleep apnea. This condition is characterized by the trachea becoming constricted while the patient sleeps, which causes them to wake up suddenly, uncomfortably, and out of breath. Here’s a quick look at what causes sleep apnea, a few of the serious problems it can cause, and how your dentist can help you get better rest.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea happens when a patient’s muscle tissues relax during sleep. While this release of tension makes it easier for the body’s cells to rest and repair themselves, it can cause the muscles and fat in a person’s neck to weigh heavily upon their windpipe and cut off their airflow. When the brain realizes it isn’t getting enough oxygen, it will send a distress signal throughout the body, causing the patient to wake up quickly so they can resume breathing normally again. This can happen a hundred times or more in a single night.
What Health Issues Can Sleep Apnea Cause?
The stress sleep apnea places on your cardiovascular system as well as the lack of rest it causes can lead to a host of overall health issues like:
- Grogginess
- Irritability
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Overeating
- Feelings of stress
- Excessive consumption of stimulants like caffeine or nicotine
- Increased risk of cardiovascular events like strokes and heart attacks
- Falling asleep while operating heavy machinery such as cars
How Can My Dentist Address Sleep Apnea?
While many doctors treat sleep apnea with large and invasive CPAP machines, many patients find these devices to be cumbersome and uncomfortable. Fortunately, some dentists offer specialized oral appliances designed to hold the jaw in a forward position during rest. Wearing this noninvasive appliance can help a patient keep their airway open while asleep, which can make it easier to rest more soundly for greater lengths of time.
Don’t let sleep apnea wreak havoc on your overall health and leave you feeling tired day after day. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to get better rest.
About the Author
Dr. Alec Starostik earned his dental degree at the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry and is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. He regularly participates in continuing education coursework to keep his skills sharp and current. His office in State College offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as sleep apnea treatments. If you are concerned about sleep apnea, contact his office online or dial (814) 234-0329.