Do You Suffer From Sleep Apnea?
The only way to find out if you have sleep apnea is to take a sleep test, but there are several common warning signs to look for. Visit a qualified sleep specialist like Dr. Bayless right away if you notice one or more the following symptoms:
- Loud, disruptive snoring
- Gasping or choking sounds while you seep
- Daytime fatigue
- Lack of motivation
- Memory problems
- Sudden mood shifts
- Waking up with a headache or dry mouth
- Diminished libido
Types of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of the disorder. It causes the muscles at the back of the throat to relax, obstructing the airway and interfering with the ability to breathe while sleeping.
When a patient with sleep apnea stops breathing, it lowers their blood oxygen level. This will automatically cause their brain to wake them up. The pattern can repeat up to 30 times per hour, preventing the sufferer from getting the quality sleep they need.
Central sleep apnea (CSA) is less common than OSA. In this form of the disorder, the brain fails to communicate the proper signals to the muscles that regulate the lungs while a person sleeps, causing them to stop breathing.
Central sleep apnea requires a different type of treatment than OSA. Dr. Bayless will see to it that you get the correct diagnosis so we can make sure you receive the appropriate care.
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
As you grow older, your risk of developing sleep apnea increases. This is especially true for men, who are more likely to suffer from the condition than women.
Additional risk factors for sleep apnea include:
- Excess weight
- Large neck circumference
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Smoking
- Alcohol use
- Nasal congestion
Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Most patients have no memory of their sleep apnea episodes. That’s why it’s often your spouse or sleep partner who first notices the condition. If you observe any of the symptoms mentioned above, we highly recommend a sleep test.
Without treatment, sleep apnea can lead to serious consequences for your overall health. Some of the most frequent complications are heart disease, strokes, and liver problems. These are all potentially life-threatening issues, so it’s crucial to get treatment as soon as possible.
In addition to harming your physical health, sleep apnea affects your mental health as well. When you’re not getting enough restful sleep, you can start to feel tired and unmotivated on a daily basis. This can damage your self-confidence, impact your relationships, and even lead to depression.
Visit Dr. Bayless for Sleep Apnea Care
If you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea, Dr. Bayless can provide the treatment you need using a customized oral appliance. A more comfortable and convenient alternative to CPAP, this device allows you to breathe freely overnight and enjoy the peaceful sleep you deserve.
Call Summer Hill Dental & Snoring Solutions at (830) 632-2112 to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Bayless today. Or you can just fill out the easy form at the bottom of the page and one of our team members will get right back to you.
Sleep Apnea Symptoms & Health FAQs
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Snoring is typically the first sign of sleep apnea, however, it doesn’t always mean you have the condition. If your snoring is also accompanied by any of these symptoms, you may suffer from sleep apnea and should receive a sleep study right away.
- Daytime drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Gasping for air at night
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Memory loss
- Frequent urination at night
What are the dangers of untreated sleep apnea?
Interrupted sleep can cause many different problems that affect your overall health, especially when left untreated. Health conditions that could arise due to untreated sleep apnea include:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Sexual dysfunction
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Fatality