You hear about the importance of getting a good night’s sleep all the time, but how many people can honestly say that they consistently sleep well? Sleep issues are a growing concern, and there are many different reasons why you may not be sleeping well. If you or your partner snores, that can keep you from getting restful sleep, and it certainly can be annoying, but did you know that snoring can indicate a medical condition known as obstructive sleep apnea?
What Is OSA?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles at the back of your throat block your airway. When these muscles relax, your airway becomes blocked, and it causes you to wake up repeatedly through the night. Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can cause high blood pressure, an increased risk of stroke or heart attack, and many other medical issues.
Who Is at Risk for OSA?
You are more likely to develop sleep apnea as you age, but certain groups are more at risk. You are at a higher risk if you are:
- Male
- Over 40
- Overweight or have a large neck circumference
- A smoker
- An alcohol user
- A prescription or recreational drug user
What Are the Treatment Options for Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
If you think you have sleep apnea, your first course of action is to reduce your intake of alcohol and tobacco and lose weight if you are overweight. It’s also a good idea to see a sleep specialist; they can conduct a formal sleep study and diagnose you with sleep apnea. At that point, the sleep specialist can talk to you about your treatment options for this condition.
The main treatment option for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine; the user wears a mask to help control their symptoms, but many CPAP users complain about the mask being uncomfortable, and they don’t wear it.
The other treatment option is an oral appliance that can be made for your mouth to help keep your airway open and reduce your sleep apnea symptoms. These oral appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices, move your jaw forward and allow you to experience better sleep quality without wearing a CPAP mask.
Are You Looking for Sleep Apnea Treatment in West Allis, WI?
If you or a loved one has trouble sleeping and you suspect they may have sleep apnea, please get in touch with Wisconsin Smiles. We would be happy to discuss your options and try to help you achieve a better night’s rest. Our dental office number is (414) 383-5833.