Even if you slept all night, do you always feel tired? Do you wake up loudly snoring or fighting for breath? Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that is often hard to spot but can show up with these signs. This blog post will explain what sleep apnea is, how to identify it, and the many treatments available, including mouth guards. Whether you are concerned about your own health or the health of a loved one, learning about sleep apnea is the first step to improved health and sleep.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person can silently stop breathing when they are asleep. This may happen several times during the night. Patients with sleep apnea are often unaware of what’s happening. Symptoms of sleep apnea include snoring, gasping for air, and being fully exhausted even when having a complete rest during the night.
In particular, mouth guards in NW Calgary may be useful to patients who wish to reduce sleep apnea. They help maintain a clear airway during sleep, thus allowing effective breathing.
How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
Home Sleep Apnea Tests
If you suspect that you suffer from sleep apnea, your physician may recommend the use of a home sleep test, which is done while wearing sensors that monitor heart rate, oxygen levels, and airflow when one is asleep. Many people prefer this because the test is executed while in bed.
In-Lab Sleep Studies
For the most accurate diagnosis, some people need to undergo overnight studies at a clinic that specializes in sleep-related issues. This term more broadly encompasses’ sleep studies’ and thus includes measuring electroencephalographs (EEG), EOM, and EMT techniques.
What Happens if Sleep Apnea Is Left Untreated?
The absence of treatment for sleep apnea can result in:
- Constant drowsiness and low energy levels.
- Higher chances of suffering from heart sickness and hypertensive disorders.
- Impaired concentration and forgetfulness.
- Mental health problems, including depression and stress disorders.
- Avoiding these health complications is dependent on diagnosis at an early stage.
Can Mouth Guard Help Solve Sleep Apnea Problems?
Yes! A mouth guard for sleep apnea, also called an OA, helps to prevent airway collapse during sleep. This particular device is for persons who have mild to moderate types of sleep apnea. Mouth guards are worn while sleeping as designed by a dentist to maintain a jaw position that enables the free flow of air into the mouth.
Who Is at Risk for Sleep Apnea?
Anybody can get sleep apnea, but several things can make it more likely for you:
- Being overweight
- Smoking or drinking alcohol
- Having a family history of sleep apnea
- Sleeping on your back
- If you have any of these risk factors, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about getting tested for sleep apnea.
What Are the Signs of Sleep Apnea?
Some common signs include:
- Snoring: Loud and frequent snoring is a key indicator.
- Breathing stops while you sleep: This is the hallmark symptom of sleep apnea.
- Waking up gasping for air: If you frequently wake up feeling out of breath, you might have sleep apnea.
- Daytime tiredness: Even after sleeping for eight hours, you might still feel tired if your sleep is disrupted by sleep apnea.
How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?
Your condition’s severity will determine the appropriate course of treatment.
- Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, quitting smoking, and changing sleeping positions can improve symptoms.
- CPAP machines: These machines use air pressure to keep your airway open.
- Mouth guards for sleep apnea: As mentioned earlier, these dental devices are a great option for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.
Looking for a Dentist in NW Calgary?
If you’re experiencing sleep apnea, Sage Hill Dental can help. Our expert team provides custom mouth guards in NW Calgary designed to improve your breathing and overall sleep quality.
Don’t wait—schedule a consultation with our skilled dentist in NW Calgary and take the first step toward better sleep today!
Breathe better, sleep better. Call or email us to book your appointment today!