What most people know about sleep apnea is that it can cause a person to snore loudly. However, it is essential for them to learn that not all snorers actually suffer from sleep apnea and that there are even non-snorers who happen to have the disorder. To simply explain the condition, there are two types of sleep apnea: Obstructive (OSA) and Central (CSA). The malady is characterized by the brief cessation in breathing during sleep, and the types distinguish the primary cause of its occurrence.
- OSA is experienced by many people. It takes place due to the blockage on the airway caused by the collapse of the soft tissues and muscles at the back of the throat. Snoring is the primary symptom of this apnea since the narrowing of the airways can cause vibrations that comes out as a snore.
- CSA, on the other hand, is more of a problem in the respiratory control center. It is the brain’s failure in sending the signal to the muscles that are supposed to control breathing. Since there is no airway blockage involved, snoring is less likely to occur.
Source: Sleep apnea – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
Sleep apnea is hard to spot without the assistance of a professional, even snoring, which is believed as the obvious clue of having the disorder. Well, unless if a bed partner or a family member points out the loud snoring and snorting during sleep.
Here are the other symptoms of sleep apnea to watch out for:
- Hypersomnia (excessive daytime sleepiness)
- Insomnia (difficulty falling and staying asleep at night)
- Nocturia (wakings at night for urination)
- Choking and gasping sounds during sleep
- Moodiness
- Memory loss
- Difficulty in concentrating and focusing
- Morning headaches
- Fatigue
- Decreased libido
Our local dentists in richmond, va at Gardner & Midgette understand the possible effects of sleep apnea not only to the quantity and quality of rest patients can get, but its long-term effects as well. Do know that the disorder is not something that can be disregarded, for leaving it untreated can lead to problems that affect the general health. Some of the possible issues are diabetes, depression, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even the worsening of ADHD.
Source: Sleep Apnea Symptoms & Warning Signs in Adults (webmd.com)
The most common treatment provided to patients who suffer from sleep apnea is an oral device that can prevent snoring and helps regulate normal breathing patterns during sleep. Our practice happens to offer a Snore Guard Anti-Snoring Device which is sure to help patients combat the adverse effects of sleep apnea and even bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching). As a result, patients can stay healthy by getting a sufficient amount of sleep to keep on going!
If you’re suffering from a sleep disorder that causes snoring and breathing pauses, then it may be Sleep Apnea! Book your appointment immediately at Gardner & Midgette for Sleep Apnea Treatment in Richmond, VA!