Sleep & Breathing Health
Sleep & Breathing Health
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can affect your breathing, energy levels, and long-term health.
Understanding the Condition
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes blocked airways during sleep, leading to disrupted rest and dangerously low oxygen levels.
People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway, and airflow stops.
When the brain’s oxygen level becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.
Health Impact
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Health
Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to severe cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.
heart health
Sleep apnea can strain your heart, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and other cardiovascular problems.
Fatigue
Interrupted sleep often leads to daytime drowsiness, reduced energy, and poor overall alertness.
Concentration
Poor oxygenation and restless nights can make it difficult to focus, think clearly, and retain information.
Mood
Sleep disruption may contribute to irritability, anxiety, or depression, affecting your emotional well-being.
Getting Diagnosed
Sleep Apnea Evaluation
The first step in treatment resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation.
To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.
Treatment Solutions
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available.
CPAP Therapy
An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask to limit obstruction at night.
Oral Appliances
Other treatment options include various custom-made appliances.
Advanced Treatments
Surgical intervention and lifestyle modifications may also be recommended.
Comfortable Alternative
Custom Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
Custom dental appliances reposition the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. These devices are comfortable, portable, and often easier to tolerate than CPAP for some patients.
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Self-Check
Could You Have Sleep Apnea?
Do you snore loudly?
Yes / No
Do you wake up tired?
Yes / No
Do you experience morning headaches?
Yes / No
Has anyone noticed you stop breathing while sleeping?
Yes / No
We’re Here for You
Talk to Our Team About Sleep Apnea Treatment
Our team at Seven Oaks Dental Centre can help evaluate your symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment options.
