It’s difficult to overstate the significance of sleep to overall well-being and quality of life. Adequate, quality sleep supports a person’s physical and mental health, cognitive function, immune system, and mood.
Unfortunately, sleep disorders can wreak havoc on sleep and negatively impact all of these aspects of a person’s life. Today we’re looking at sleep apnea, what it is, and signs that it may be robbing you of your well-earned tranquility at bedtime.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
A person with sleep apnea may experience a disrupted sleep pattern due to interruptions in breathing. This occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked, leading to pauses in breathing that can last for several seconds several times throughout the night. The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), in which muscles in the throat relax during sleep and cause the airway to narrow.
If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in an elevated risk of a variety of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, obesity, and diabetes.
What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
The most common warning signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud, frequent snoring.
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or impaired memory
- Irritability or mood changes
If you suspect that you or a loved one has sleep apnea, it’s important to undergo a sleep study to monitor sleep patterns and breathing during sleep.
What To Do If You Exhibit Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
If a person is suffering from sleep apnea, suggested treatment options include an improved, healthier diet, changes in sleep position, or the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. As always, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before commencing with any treatment plan.
Bloomington Sleep Apnea Dentist
If you’re looking for a dentist in the Bloomington, IN area with expertise not only in treating symptoms of sleep apnea but also a comprehensive range of preventative and corrective dental procedures, contact dentist Dr. David Compton and the team at Ellettsville Dental Center to schedule a consultation appointment.