What Are the Signs of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea, a disorder that affects millions worldwide, often goes undiagnosed due to its elusive nature. This silent nighttime terror disrupts sleep patterns and overall health, making it imperative to discuss and understand. At Distinctive Dental Solutions, we believe in the power of knowledge for maintaining optimal dental and overall health. We are here to help you better understand sleep apnea, its types, and signs to look out for.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. It affects people of all ages and genders, but risk factors increase with age, obesity, and certain lifestyle habits like smoking. There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and complex sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea, the most common type, occurs when throat muscles relax. Central sleep apnea happens when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles controlling your breathing. Complex sleep apnea syndrome is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Spotting the Signs of Sleep Apnea
Identifying sleep apnea can be challenging as most symptoms occur during sleep. However, specific signs can act as red flags. Here are some signs that may indicate you or a loved one could be suffering from sleep apnea.
Loud Snoring
While snoring can be a normal occurrence for some people, loud and persistent snoring that disrupts your or a partner’s sleep could be a sign of sleep apnea. This form of snoring often comes with choking or gasping sounds.
Daytime Sleepiness
Excessive daytime sleepiness, also known as hypersomnia, can indicate sleep apnea. If you find yourself struggling to stay awake during the day despite a full night’s sleep, or if you lack energy and are excessively tired, it’s time to take note.
Morning Headaches
People with sleep apnea often wake up with headaches. These occur due to the drop in oxygen levels in the blood caused by interrupted breathing, leading to the widening of blood vessels and resulting in a morning headache.
Gasping for Breath During Sleep
If you’ve been told that you gasp or choke while sleeping or if you wake up gasping for breath, this could be a sign of sleep apnea. This happens when your body reacts to the lack of oxygen during an apnea event.
Waking Up with a Dry Mouth
A dry mouth upon waking can indicate sleep apnea. This symptom occurs because most people with sleep apnea sleep with their mouths open, causing dryness.
Take Action Today
Sleep apnea is more than just a sleep disruptor; it’s a health hazard. It’s crucial to identify and address sleep apnea early as it can lead to more severe health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
At Distinctive Dental Solutions, we’re dedicated to advancing your unique dental goals toward lasting health. If you recognize any of these signs, we encourage you not to ignore them. Your new smile starts here, and so does your journey to better sleep and overall health. Our team is ready to assist you in understanding and managing sleep apnea. We offer a variety of services, including consultations and treatments for sleep apnea. Don’t let sleep apnea rob you of your rest and health. Call us today for a consultation, and let us help you achieve your health goals.
