After a long day at work or home, you are tired to your bones and are in serious need of some shut eye. A good night's rest can do wonders to keep you healthy. And the real truth is that your body needs it, you are not a machine. According to science, lack of sleep can cause severe damage to your memory and be the cause of diabetes, hypertension and depression.
One sleep issue that is becoming increasingly prominent is a condition called Obstructive Sleep Apnea. When sleeping, your airway is temporarily blocked by the collapse of soft tissue at the back of your throat. Your reflexes will stir you awake so you can breathe, but your brain may suffer due to lack of oxygen – and you get a poor night’s sleep. Visit your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
If you are overweight, there are higher chances of you suffering from sleep apnea.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
- Heavy snoring
- Waking up multiple times gasping for air
- Throat will feel parched upon waking
- Headaches
- Feeling unrested during the day
- Unfocused throughout the day due to lack of proper sleep
But there are always treatments and solutions:
- If you are a smoker, sleep apnea is just one in a long list of side effects. Talk with your doctor to develop a smoking cessation plan together.
- Maintaining your weight and in case you are overweight, you need to lose weight. Once again, speak with your doctor about a healthy diet and exercise program.
- Consumption of alcohol plays an active part in aggravating sleep apnea. It is advisable to discontinue its consumption or limit it strictly.
- Talk to your doctor if you are on anti-depressants or sleep aids, as these medications may have an effect on sleep apnea.
- See a doctor to determine whether the cause of your OSA is an anatomical (i.e. large tongue, narrow airway) reason. Based on the examinations, your doctor might suggest surgery.
- Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) is a widely used method where a machine is placed over the patients' nose and mouth while sleeping so the patient can breathe easily through the night.
Depending on how severe your sleep apnea is, there is a dental device that is an alternative to CPAP for patients suffering a mild or moderate form. The device targets the jaw and the structure of the mouth. Schedule an appointment with your dentist at Carlingwood Dental Centre to discuss this option.
Sleep apnea is a serious condition and needs to be addressed before matters take a turn for the worse. If you are suffering then don’t let it wait because it could lead to severe health problems in the future. Get the help you need today.
