Do you wake up with chronic headaches? Do you snore loudly or wake to gasp for air throughout the night?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might have sleep apnea. Diagnosing and treating sleep apnea can be life-saving. It is important to visit a specialist if you are experiencing any signs of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious health condition that can affect your quality of life if left untreated.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a health condition that occurs when the airway becomes blocked while a patient is sleeping, typically by the collapse of soft tissues in the back of the throat. Patients are unable to breathe normally due to the disruption in air flow. Oxygen is cut off from the vital organs, and patients wake to gasp for air.
What Are The Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea may cause chronic fatigue, make it difficult to concentrate, and cause you to be easily agitated or depressed. Sleep apnea is also commonly associated with dry mouth and loud snoring. Patients often experience daily morning headaches and weight gain.
What are the health risks associated with Sleep Apnea?
Patients with sleep apnea have a higher risk of oral and systemic health complications including but not limited to high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and inflammation.
What are the treatment options my dentist can offer for Sleep Apnea?
Dr. Deckard may coordinate sleep apnea therapy with your medical professional to provide an effective solution for sleep apnea. Dr. Deckard uses oral sleep appliance therapy to realign the upper and lower jaw to allow normal airflow during sleep. Oral sleep appliances can be a comfortable, convenient solution for obstructive sleep apnea.
What should I do if I think I have Sleep Apnea?
If you think you or your partner may have sleep apnea, be sure to let your doctor or dentist know. Dr. Justin Deckard offers patients in the Washington, DC area sleep apnea treatment. A simple sleep study test can determine if you experience sleep apnea. It is vital to sleep apnea as soon as possible to prevent harmful side effects.
Dr. Deckard and our entire dental care team welcome new patients and families to our comfortable, state-of-the-art cosmetic dentist office located in Washington, DC.