Could you be dealing with sleep apnea? Mesa, AZ dentist explains some common symptoms.

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep condition that affects many patients in the Mesa, AZ region. Sleep apnea episodes occur when the patient simply stops breathing for more than 10 seconds during his or her sleep. These episodes happen frequently throughout the night, occurring repeatedly, all night long. Because sleep apnea episodes occur when the patient is asleep, it can often go undiagnosed.

Sleep apnea episodes are caused by obstruction of the airway, so snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea. As the person sleeps, the tongue may fall back and partially or completely block the airway. However, many people don’t understand that snoring can be more than an annoyance. It can be an indication of a serious health condition or can cause problems due to oxygen deprivation.

How can patients know if their snoring is simply an annoyance or a sign of a larger problem? There are several other common symptoms of sleep apnea. For example, patients with sleep apnea often gasp for air while sleeping as they begin to breathe again. Sleep apnea also causes disruptions in sleep leading patients to feel chronically tired, regardless of how early they went to bed. Other symptoms include irritability, anxiety, depression, lack of focus, and disorientation due to lack of sleep. Furthermore, many patients with sleep apnea complain of constant headaches or a sore throat.

Sleep apnea can occur in anyone. However, patients who are most at risk are males over the age of 40 who are overweight. If you’re exhibiting these symptoms, consider calling Dr. Edward Fritz of New Health Dental in Mesa, AZ. Dr. Fritz helps his patients manage their sleep apnea and achieve better sleep. As a result, patients are happier and healthier.

There are several ways to treat sleep apnea. In the past, the most common method of treatment was the continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, machine. This apparatus includes a mask or nasal prongs that are connected to a machine that manages the air pressure. The machine is effective when used; however, many patients admit to not using the machine because it is uncomfortable and can be distracting.

When patients come to Dr. Fritz with sleep apnea issues, he often talks to them about utilizing an oral appliance – similar to the mouth guards used in sports. This small and lightweight appliance shifts the lower jaw forward and ensures that airway does not become obstructed during sleep.

Don’t suffer through more nights, weeks, or months of restless sleep. Instead, call New Health Dental today to schedule an appointment to discuss your options for treating your sleep apnea.

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