Do you think you have sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people each year, resulting in a poor night’s sleep, daytime drowsiness, and more. At Krengel Dental, we offer custom sleep apnea treatment options that can help relieve the symptoms of this disorder.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is caused by repeated interruptions in breathing while you sleep. These pauses, known as apneas, can occur several times each night and will disturb your sleep cycle if left unchecked.
What Are the Types of Sleep Apnea?
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
This type of sleep apnea normally results in breathing cessation while asleep, the inability to sleep (insomnia), and sudden awakenings with shortness of breath. This is due to the brain failing to send signals to the muscles that control your breathing.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea. This usually results in loud snoring, feeling sleepy during the day, headaches, irritability, and gasping for air while asleep. OSA is caused by the muscles in the back of your throat relaxing excessively, which leads to a partial or complete blockage of your airway.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome (Mixed Sleep Apnea)
This is a mix of both OSA and CSA and has symptoms of both.
How Do I Know if I Suffer from Sleep Apnea?
In order to receive a professional diagnosis, you can participate in a sleep study in a sleep lab. Another option is conducting your own sleep study at home.
What Happens if I Don’t Receive Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Complications that can arise from untreated sleep apnea include daytime drowsiness, cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure or a stroke, metabolic disorders, and liver problems. Proper treatment of sleep apnea is important for your overall health. If you are concerned that you may have sleep apnea, we highly recommend contacting us to book a consultation for sleep apnea treatment options.
What Sleep Apnea Treatment Options Are Available?
Machine Devices
Different treatment options include a Continuous Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, a Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) Machine, and an Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP) Machine. These all work in different ways to adjust air pressure throughout the night so you are breathing more functionally. CPAP machines are more commonly used by people who have obstructive sleep apnea, while BiPAP machines are more helpful for those with central sleep apnea.
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
These are custom-fitted devices that will help propel the lower jaw and tongue forward, which will open your airway. These lookalike mouthguards can be created and fitted by our very own Dr. Westmeyer. They are used by people who have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and are worn inside your mouth while you sleep. Contact us today if you would like a consultation to learn more about this device.
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)
A TRD, a small split that fits around your tongue, will help hold your tongue in a forward position so it won’t obstruct your airway.
Lifestyle Changes
There are several lifestyle changes that may help with sleep apnea. Staying at a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, sleeping on your side (not your back), and quitting smoking can all help improve symptoms from this disorder.
Surgery
Some patients may opt for an oral surgery to remove or reduce tissue in their throats or reposition the jaw.
Conclusion
Sleep apnea can be a disruptive disorder if left untreated. If you think you may suffer from sleep apnea, we highly recommend pursuing sleep apnea treatment options. We would love to help you decide what’s right for you through a consultation. Visit our contact page to book an appointment at either our St. Louis Park or Bloomington, Minn. locations today.
