Aug
Sleep apnea should be recognized as more than just a condition resulting in inconvenient snoring. Sleep apnea has long been recognized as a serious condition that disrupts sleep and can lead to significant health issues. When you visit A Brush Above Family Dentistry in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Marcella Guzman and her friendly team will provide solutions for snoring and sleep apnea. Oral appliance therapy is one effective treatment to help prevent sleep apnea and improve sleep quality. Let’s address some common questions about sleep apnea and its treatments.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) surfaces when an individual’s throat muscles relax to the point where they block the airway used for breathing. Factors contributing to OSA include obesity, large tonsils, a small jaw, or certain medical conditions. These blockages prevent sufficient airflow, causing breathing interruptions and poor sleep quality. Addressing these underlying causes is essential to managing and treating OSA effectively. An oral appliance is a great option for those suffering from sleep apnea who may be looking to avoid the cumbersome inconvenience of a traditional CPAP machine for treatment.
Yes, chronic snoring is often a significant symptom of sleep apnea. While not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, persistent, loud snoring followed by gasping or choking sounds is a strong indicator. It’s crucial to differentiate between simple snoring and sleep apnea, as the latter requires medical attention due to its potential health risks.
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to various long-term health issues, including cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Additionally, it can cause daytime fatigue, impaired concentration, and an increased risk of accidents. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety can also result from chronic sleep deprivation due to sleep apnea.
An oral appliance is a custom-fitted device worn during sleep to keep the airway open. It works by repositioning the jaw or tongue to prevent airway obstruction. This non-invasive treatment is effective for many patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Oral appliances are convenient, portable, and often more comfortable than CPAP machines, making them a popular choice for managing sleep apnea.
If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or chronic snoring, Dr. Marcella Guzman and the team at A Brush Above Family Dentistry can help. Contact us at (773) 840-0378 to learn more about how oral appliance therapy can improve your sleep quality and overall health. Don’t let sleep apnea disrupt your life – take the first step towards better sleep today!