Do you have a spouse or loved one that complains about your snoring? Do you wake up in the middle of the night gasping for air? Do you find that you are always exhausted during the day and just can’t seem to ever catch up on sleep? If these symptoms sound familiar, you may be one of many people suffering from sleep apnea.
Seattle dentist Dr. Daniel McKay wants you to know you are not alone, there is a solution, and wants to help you get the restful sleep you deserve. Read on to learn about what sleep apnea is and how we can treat it. If you have any questions, our team at McKay Center for Cosmetic and General Dentistry is happy to answer them.
Sleep Apnea & Your Health
Getting restful sleep every night is a crucial part of your daily health. Although snoring may seem harmless, it indicates your breathing is obstructed and may be a sign of sleep apnea. However, it’s important to note that if you snore occasionally, it does not necessarily mean that you have sleep apnea.
If the soft tissues of the mouth and throat become too relaxed (this happens involuntarily), they can form an obstruction and restrict airflow. The result is snoring, difficulty breathing at night, frequent urination during the night, and poor quality of sleep. Some research has even shown that sleep apnea increases the risk of a heart attack.
The Solution
If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, we recommend a visit to Dr. McKay. Most importantly, don’t give up on a good night’s sleep! The most common treatments available include:
- CPAP Machines: Through the use of a face mask worn during sleep, continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) is applied to keep the airway unobstructed. Although some folks find this treatment to be effective, others have a difficult time sleeping with a bulky mask on.
- Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT): If you are looking for a solution that doesn’t require a cumbersome machine, Dr. McKay can fit you with a special device that shifts the jaw slightly forward, opening the airway, and allowing for a peaceful sleep.
If you would like to find out more about oral appliance therapy or come in for a free consultation, we can help you get your “zzzzz’s” back. Contact your Seattle dentist today for more information!
The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
