Sleep apnea signs and insomnia
Is loud snoring keeping you or your partner up at night? Do you find yourself waking up feeling tired, headachy, and somewhat grumpy? If you have been told that your nocturnal sawing of wood has reached ear-splitting decibels, and you suspect that your quality of sleep is not quite what it should be, there is a very good chance that you may be suffering from a serious sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. While sleep apnea may seem more annoying than anything, we here at Oral & Facial Institute of Houston really must emphasize how dangerous this condition can be, and how important it is to seek treatment for it if you believe you may have it.
What is Sleep Apnea?
While it may seem like sleep apnea is just a bothersome condition that causes snoring and interrupts your, it is a very serious medical condition. Sleep apnea is a disorder that occurs when the sufferer stops breathing at night. This can lead to choking and sputtering and the individual waking up. Several episodes can occur per hour, every single night.
There are three main types of sleep apnea. The most common type is called “obstructive sleep apnea,” and it occurs when the airway becomes closed off when the person is asleep. It normally occurs due to the muscles in the throat, becoming relaxed, and the airway becomes closed. Next, there is “central sleep apnea”. The cause for this type is different from obstructive sleep apnea, and it occurs when the brain does not communicate properly with your breathing muscles.
Finally, the least common type of sleep apnea is called “complex sleep apnea syndrome,” and it is a combination of the other two types of sleep apnea.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Many clues can point to the presence of sleep apnea. One of the more common ones is snoring. Other signs of sleep apnea can include choking and gasping for air while the individual sleeps. They may wake up with a headache or a dry mouth, and they can find themselves feeling fatigued during the daytime. Poor mood is also associated with sleep apnea, too.
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and even death. Treating it, therefore, is vital.
Treating Sleep Apnea
Depending on the type of sleep apnea and the severity of it, there are many different treatment options available. One way a person can address their sleep apnea is to undergo lifestyle changes. Because smoking and obesity are associated with sleep apnea, losing weight, and stopping smoking can be helpful.
Other treatment options can include oral appliances that can be used at night to help keep the airways open. A CPAP machine can also be beneficial to someone who is struggling with sleep apnea. If the sleep apnea persists, surgical intervention may be necessary. This can include removing the tonsils or other tissue from the mouth and throat.
If you suspect that you may have sleep apnea, or you are simply tired of being poked in the ribs at night when you sleep due to your snoring, then it is critical that you reach out to us right away. For more information, or to set up an appointment with us here at Oral & Facial Institute of Houston, please give us a call today!
FAQs
What Are Sleep Apnea Risk Factors?
Understanding sleep apnea risk factors can help identify those more likely to receive this diagnosis. It can also prompt early intervention.
Some well-known risk factors include:
- Excess Weight: Obesity increases the likelihood of developing sleep apnea. Fat deposits around the upper airway can interfere with breathing.
- Neck Circumference: A thicker neck may mean a narrower airway. A narrower airway can obstruct breathing.
- Age: Sleep apnea is more likely to affect older adults.
- Gender: Men are more likely than women to develop sleep apnea. However, the risk for women increases after menopause.
- Family History: A family history of sleep apnea can increase your risk.
- Use of Alcohol, Sedatives, or Tranquilizers: Substances like these relax the muscles in your throat. This relaxation can worsen sleep apnea.
- Smoking: Smokers are more prone to sleep apnea than non-smokers.
- Nasal Congestion: Those with difficulty breathing through their noses are more likely to develop sleep apnea.
How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
Here's what to expect during this appointment:
- Physical Exam: During the physical exam, your provider will focus on your throat, mouth, and nose. They will check for extra tissue or other abnormalities.
- Sleep Study (Polysomnography): This is the most definitive test for diagnosing sleep apnea. It can be done in a sleep center or at home. During this test, sensors track various vital signs, including your breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels.
- Oximetry: This simpler test involves wearing a small device on your finger. The device measures your blood oxygen levels overnight. Significant drops in oxygen levels during sleep can suggest sleep apnea.
Are There Risks Associated With Untreated Sleep Apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to various serious health problems, including:
- Cardiovascular Problems: Sleep apnea can increase your risk of experiencing high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, and arrhythmias. These issues are due to the repeated drops in oxygen levels.
- Daytime Fatigue: Waking up repeatedly makes normal, restorative sleep impossible. Poor sleep can lead to severe daytime drowsiness and irritability.
- Medication and Surgery Complications: Sleep apnea can pose problems with certain medications and surgery. This is especially likely when under general anesthesia.
- Liver Problems: Sleep apnea sufferers are more likely to have abnormal liver function test results. Their livers are more likely to exhibit signs of scarring (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) as well.
- Impaired Performance: Sleep apnea can affect your job performance. It also increases the risk of accidents.
Why Choose the Oral and Facial Institute of Houston?
The Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston (OFSIH) aims to enhance patients' lives with superior oral and facial surgical care – including treatments for sleep apnea. We set the standard for excellence through advanced procedures, cutting-edge technology, and a patient-centered approach.
Led by Dr. L.T. Johnson, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, our team is dedicated to delivering outstanding care and producing transformative results. Choose OFSIH for unparalleled expertise and a strong commitment to your well-being.
