Is Your Snoring Actually Sleep Apnea?
As many as half of all adults snore every night, and, while you might think that your bed partner’s complaints of nighttime noise are normal, these symptoms may be indicative of a more serious health issue known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). While nearly all sufferers of obstructive sleep apnea snore, not every person who snores does so because of sleep apnea.
Frantz Dental has created this guide to help you understand whether your snore is benign, or a symptom of something greater.
Waking Frequently to Breathe
OSA usually occurs when the soft tissues of the throat obstruct regular flow of air to your lungs. Unable to breathe normally while asleep, people with this form of sleep apnea will wake up regularly, feeling short of breath. If you snore and also wake up periodically during the night to catch your breath, you may have OSA. At our Kingston dental practice, we provide patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea with appliances that help to open your airway, allowing you to regain a restful sleep.
High Blood Pressure
While high blood pressure is symptomatic of a number of health issues, this can also result from OSA. If you experience sleep apnea, your body will regularly struggle to properly oxygenate your body. In response to this lack of oxygen, your body will tighten blood vessels to facilitate increased blood flow. Extended high blood pressure can be linked to various short and long term bodily damage, including stroke and heart disease. If you know you snore, and also suffer from high blood pressure, contact your general care provider today.
Mood Swings
Much like high blood pressure, mood swings and depression can result from the body attempting to adjust to the lack of airflow and proper sleep. OSA regularly causes hormone imbalances, resulting in mood swings and the development of depressive tendencies. However, these symptoms are commonly alleviated by the treatment of sleep apnea through oral appliances and CPAP machines.
Treat Your Sleep Apnea Today
If you snore regularly and suffer from one or more of these other symptoms, you may be in need of an OSA oral appliance. At Frantz Dental, we work alongside your general healthcare provider to ensure that you receive the necessary treatment to achieve restful sleep.
Contact our Kingston practice to learn more!