Posted: November 15, 2023
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder with major consequences if untreated. Increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke are known complications of untreated sleep apnea. Luckily, treatment for sleep apnea can be effective and may not only mitigate these unwanted risks but may also help you achieve a full night’s rest.
However, sleep apnea can be difficult to diagnose if you aren’t sure what to look for. Here are signs to look out for and when to seek treatment.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is the broad-definition term for any sleep disorder that leads to a cessation of breathing during sleep. There are many types of sleep apnea, but the most common one is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
OSA is caused by a blockage of the airways and is characterized by no breathing during sleep, followed by small, imperceptible periods of wakefulness. Episodes of hypopnea, where you are not taking in enough oxygen, may happen at least five times per hour for sufferers of OSA and can happen even more.
How To Tell If You Have Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea can be difficult to self-diagnose. The individual suffering from them may not notice periods of wakefulness because they are so short in duration. Often, it is the partner of someone with sleep apnea who notices. However, there are signs you can look out for that may point to sleep apnea:
- Excessive fatigue despite believing you got enough sleep.
- Sore throat or dry mouth.
- Cognitive and emotional impairments such as trouble focusing and thinking or mood swings.
- Headaches
A lack of proper sleep can lead to even more symptoms. This could point to sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.
Find Sleep Apnea Relief in Calgary, AB
A variety of sleep apnea treatments exist. Machinery utilized during sleep can help maintain consistent airflow. There are also facial exercises that can help strengthen muscles to prevent certain tissues from creating blockages in the first place. There may even be surgical interventions needed to solve the cause of the problem.
Choosing the right dentist can ease the road to finding the right treatment.
Dr. Gordon Chee and his staff have provided compassionate care and a friendly environment for nearly 20 years at Aesthetic Dental Studio. Dr. Chee’s expertise is well-recognized, as he was a guest instructor at the 2019 Dental Influencers Alliance in Phoenix, Arizona.
To learn more about how you may find sleep apnea treatment at Aesthetic Dental Studio, call 403-543-4600 to schedule your consultation.
