Signs & Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Do you frequently wake up in the morning feeling poorly rested? Do you ever wake up short of breath in the middle of the night? Does your partner say that you snore? If so, you may be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.

At Pleasant Plains Dental, your dentist in Indian Trail, NC, we offer treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Read on to learn about the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea, and how we can help!

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

This sleep disorder is when an individual’s breathing is repeatedly interrupted throughout sleep because their throat’s soft tissue collapses and blocks their airway. Sometimes, these interruptions can occur hundreds of times in a night. When these interruptions happen, oxygen is cut off from reaching the brain, which can be very dangerous. While some people remember waking up gasping for air during the night from these pauses in breathing, other people sleep right through them.

Signs & Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Nighttime signs and symptoms include:

• Loud snoring
• Restless sleep or difficulty staying asleep
• Pauses in breathing that a roommate or partner may notice
• Waking up gasping for air
• Frequent trips to the bathroom during the night

Daytime signs and symptoms include:

• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Forgetfulness
• Daytime sleepiness
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Sore throat

If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, contact us to schedule a consultation. We can provide you with a diagnosis and treatment plan by utilizing an at-home testing kit and working with your medical provider.

Risks of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is associated with a number of serious health issues. These include high blood pressure, depression, diabetes, worsening of ADHD, heart disease, and stroke. Because sleep apnea can make it hard for you to focus, it can adversely affect your performance at work or in school. Additionally, people with sleep apnea are more likely to get into a car accident.

Treatment for Sleep Apnea

At Pleasant Plains Dental, your dentist in Indian Trail, NC, we can diagnose and treat your sleep apnea. We offer a no-cost consultation. This includes:

• An evaluation of your medical history and sleep history
• Rhinometer and pharyngometer testing
• Identification of risk factors

We’ll work closely with your medical provider to create a sleep apnea treatment plan that is right for you. We use special oral appliances that hold the lower jaw forward just enough to protect your airway from blockage.

Are you suffering from low energy, chronic headaches, and irritability? Contact our Indian Trail dental office today to get tested for obstructive sleep apnea.

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