Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes your breathing to stop and start while you sleep. People with sleep apnea may not realize they have it, but it can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. This condition can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and other health problems.
If you think you might have sleep apnea, it’s crucial to seek a diagnosis and recommendations for treatment. Oral Facial Surgery of Delaware offers alternative treatment to the CPAP with oral appliance therapy. Oral sleep appliances are an effective treatment option that can significantly improve your quality of life. By understanding the signs and risk factors, you can take proactive steps towards better sleep health. Remember, a good night’s sleep is vital for overall health and well-being. Treating sleep apnea can restore your ability to enjoy life with greater energy and focus while reducing the risk of complications.
Common Signs of Sleep Apnea
If you or someone you know snores loudly, it’s important to pay attention. Here are some common signs of sleep apnea:
- Loud Snoring: Many people with sleep apnea snore loudly, often interrupted by silence as they stop breathing.
- Choking or Gasping: You may wake up choking or gasping for air, which can be frightening.
- Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: If you find yourself feeling tired during the day, even after a full night’s sleep, this could be a sign.
- Morning Headaches: Waking up with headaches is another potential symptom of sleep apnea.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Sleep apnea can affect your ability to focus, leading to issues at school or work.
- Irritability: Feeling more moody or irritable than usual can also be a sign of sleep disruption caused by sleep apnea.
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
Several factors can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea. Understanding these can help in identifying the condition early:
- Obesity: Extra weight can contribute to blocked airways, making sleep apnea more likely.
- Age: Sleep apnea is more common in older adults, especially those over 40.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop sleep apnea than women, although the risk for women increases after menopause.
- Family History: If someone in your family has sleep apnea, you may be at a higher risk.
- Smoking: Smoking can increase inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway.
- Alcohol and Sedatives: These can relax the throat muscles, worsening sleep apnea.
How Oral Appliances Work
Oral appliances are a popular treatment option for sleep apnea, especially for those who prefer a non-invasive solution. These devices are custom-made to fit your mouth and are designed to reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep.
Oral appliance therapy can offer key benefits including a more comfortable treatment option compared to the CPAP. Designed to fit like a mouthguard, an oral sleep appliance is small and easy to transport, making them convenient for travel.
Types of Oral Appliances
There are two main types of oral appliances used to treat sleep apnea. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best oral appliance for you. They can conduct a sleep study to assess your condition and help create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Once a diagnosis is made, appropriate treatment will be prescribed. Oral appliance therapy is prone to be effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea and snoring.
- Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): These devices move the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open.
- Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs): These devices hold the tongue in place to prevent it from blocking the airway.
Lifestyle Changes to Support Treatment
In addition to using an oral appliance, making some lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. For some patients, adjusting their sleeping position can minimize symptoms. Losing weight can significantly reduce sleep apnea symptoms for many people. Limiting the use of alcohol and sedatives can also improve airway function. We can offer other lifestyle changes based on your unique risk factors.